EXPANSION: How the NBA's New Era will IMPACT the New Orleans Pelicans and Zion Williamson

EXPANSION: How the NBA's New Era will IMPACT the New Orleans Pelicans and Zion Williamson

27:01 Mar 18, 2026
About this episode
New Orleans Pelicans face franchise-defining decisions as NBA expansion looms. With only eight players eligible for protection in the upcoming expansion draft, tough calls on Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Saddiq Bay could reshape the roster’s future. Jake Madison explores the complexities of contract extensions, potential casualties, and why front office foresight is crucial as Seattle and Las Vegas eye league entries.   Get insights on how the $400–$650 million expansion windfall may fuel Smoothie King Center renovations and solidify the long-term lease—ending unfounded relocation rumors. Madison also unpacks why a move to the Eastern Conference remains unlikely for the Pelicans, details possible realignment scenarios, and highlights ownership implications. Expansion isn’t just a big-picture NBA story—its ripple effects will be felt in New Orleans for years to come.   Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms 🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-pelicans/   Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/nba #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans     Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! TurboTax This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.   ZocDoc Stop putting off those doctor appointments and go to https://Zocdoc.com/LOCKEDONNBA to find and instantly book a doctor you love today.     Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.   Wayfair. Every style. Every home.     DoorDash From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.   Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.   DoorDash. In your bag all season long.   Robinhood You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm.   Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterH
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