The Pelicans management is in a tough spot here. Ownership wants to make the playoffs, yet a singular focus on that one goal could have terrible ramifications for future years. Imagine a situation where the Pelicans get the 8th seed, or fall a few games short, denying all offers to trade players before the February 23rd deadline. Then, imagine a scenario in which the Pelicans get a middle of the road pick and watch guys like Tyreke Evans and Jrue Holiday leave for nothing in July.
And before you write that scenario off as possible, but unlikely, need I remind you that we just saw it happen 6 months ago with Eric Gordon and Ryan Anderson?