Lakers Trade Rumors Hit Major Roadblock as Pelicans Declare Herb Jones Untouchable Ahead of NBA Trade Deadline

The Los Angeles Lakers’ trade plans have suffered a significant setback ahead of the February 5 NBA trade deadline, as the New Orleans Pelicans have officially informed teams around the league that Herb Jones is not available in trade discussions. The announcement delivers disappointing news for the Lakers, who had identified the All-Defensive wing as one of their top trade targets in their pursuit of roster upgrades for a deep playoff run.

Jones, widely regarded as one of the league’s premier perimeter defenders, has been consistently linked to the Lakers by scouts and league insiders throughout the season. However, multiple reports now confirm that New Orleans has firmly shut the door on any potential deal involving the 26-year-old forward.

Pelicans Make Core Players Untouchable

NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that the Pelicans have designated Herb Jones as untouchable, along with four other core players, despite the team facing an uphill battle to secure a spot in the Western Conference play-in tournament.

“Sources: New Orleans Pelicans are disappointing the market in informing teams that Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy, Herb Jones, Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears will remain with the organization past Feb. 5 trade deadline,” Haynes posted on X.

The Pelicans’ decision signals a clear commitment to their long-term core, even as the franchise navigates an inconsistent season. By removing Jones from trade talks, New Orleans has sent a strong message that it values defensive continuity and player development over short-term roster reshuffling.

Why Herb Jones Was the Lakers’ Ideal Target

No player has been more closely associated with Lakers trade rumors than Herb Jones. According to The Athletic’s Dan Woike, Jones topped the Lakers’ internal wishlist due to his elite defensive skill set, positional versatility, and team-friendly contract.

Jones’ ability to guard multiple positions, disrupt passing lanes, and knock down open three-pointers made him an ideal complement to LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Lakers have long prioritized adding a reliable 3-and-D wing, and Jones fit that profile better than nearly any player rumored to be available.

However, when the Lakers initially inquired about Jones in early December, they were quickly rebuffed. At the time, Jones was also restricted from being traded until January 15, due to the terms of his contract extension, further complicating any potential deal.

Lakers’ Trade Package Fell Short

Even before the Pelicans’ latest stance, there were clear signs that a Jones trade to Los Angeles was unlikely. Woike previously reported that New Orleans had little interest in a Lakers trade package centered around Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, or Maxi Kleber, even when paired with a future first-round pick.

“Considering what LA would have to offer in a deal, expiring contracts and a single first-round pick, the Pelicans almost certainly wouldn’t engage at that price point,” Woike wrote on December 11.

The Pelicans’ valuation of Jones was significantly higher than what the Lakers could reasonably offer, especially given Los Angeles’ limited draft capital. With only one tradable first-round pick available before the offseason, the Lakers were always operating at a disadvantage in negotiations.

Asking Price Too Steep for Lakers

Even if New Orleans had entertained the idea of trading Jones, the price tag would have been prohibitive. According to ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, the Pelicans would have demanded at least two unprotected first-round picks in any deal involving Herb Jones.

That asking price effectively removes the Lakers from contention, as they cannot meet those demands until the offseason due to existing pick obligations. As a result, Jones is now considered all but officially off the market, forcing the Lakers to pivot toward alternative options.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

With Herb Jones no longer a viable target, the Lakers are expected to shift their focus to other trade candidates as they attempt to solidify their rotation for the second half of the season. Among the names rumored to be on Los Angeles’ radar are Keon Ellis, Andrew Wiggins, and Daniel Gafford.

Of those options, Keon Ellis may present the most realistic pathway to a deal. Reports indicate that the Sacramento Kings are open to trading Ellis and have set an asking price of one first-round pick for the defensive-minded guard.

However, the Lakers appear hesitant. According to Forbes’ Evan Sidery, Los Angeles is reluctant to part with its only tradable first-round pick (2031) for a player who remains relatively unproven on a large stage.

“The Lakers recently checked in with the Kings on Keon Ellis,” Sidery reported on January 6. “Sacramento is seeking at least a 1st-round pick for Ellis, who is viewed as a well above-average 3-and-D guard. Los Angeles is willing to include Dalton Knecht, but they currently only have one tradable pick in 2031.”

This hesitation highlights the delicate balance the Lakers must strike between improving the roster now and preserving future flexibility in a post-LeBron era.

Lakers’ Playoff Position Adds Urgency

The pressure to make the right trade decision is intensifying as the Lakers navigate a crowded Western Conference playoff race. Following a tough loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, the Lakers fell to 23–13, sliding to the fifth seed in the West.

More concerning, Los Angeles holds just a one-game lead over the seventh-seeded Phoenix Suns, putting them at risk of dropping into the play-in tournament. Head coach JJ Redick has emphasized consistency and defensive execution, but roster limitations remain evident against elite competition.

Bigger Picture: Patience or Aggression?

The Pelicans’ refusal to trade Herb Jones underscores a broader reality for the Lakers: premium defensive wings are rarely available at a discount. While Jones would have been an ideal fit, the cost and availability simply do not align with Los Angeles’ current assets.

As the trade deadline approaches, the Lakers must decide whether to:

• Make a smaller, more conservative move

• Overpay for marginal upgrades

• Or hold their assets and reassess in the offseason

For now, one thing is clear—Herb Jones will not be wearing purple and gold anytime soon, and the Lakers’ front office must quickly recalibrate its strategy.