Lakers, Knicks pursuing former All-Rookie center originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi is an intriguing option on the trade block ahead of next week's deadline.
HoopsHype NBA insider Michael Scotto said Wednesday that Missi is garnering significant interest around the league.
"New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi has drawn significant trade interest, including the Pacers, Hawks, Celtics, Knicks, Bulls, Lakers, and Raptors as suitors, league sources told HoopsHype," Scotto said.
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Missi was drafted No. 21 overall by New Orleans in the 2024 NBA Draft. He had a strong rookie season, averaging 9.1 points and 8.2 rebounds in 73 games.
But he's seen a reduced role this season for the Pelicans, who have experienced organizational turnover since Missi arrived two years ago. The team hired Joe Dumars as President of Basketball operations last April and fired head coach Willie Green just 12 games into this season.
The Pelicans also drafted center Derik Queen in last year's draft, which has hurt Missi's minutes. His numbers this season are down as a result, as he's averaging 5.8 points and 5.8 rebounds in 19.2 minutes per game.
Scotto believes New Orleans still has a high asking price for the young center, stating that rival teams are intrigued by his athleticism and shot blocking.
"Amid trade talks, the Pelicans have signaled that they’d want a first-round pick to consider parting with Missi," Scotto said.
Missi is on an affordable $3.3 million deal this season and is under contract through the 2027-28 season. He played one season at Baylor before entering the 2024 Draft.
