New Orleans Pelicans Could Soon Add Another Former Duke Basketball Star to Support Zion Williamson’s Quest for NBA Playoff Success
The New Orleans Pelicans may soon find themselves on the verge of a reunion that could bring college nostalgia to life and inject a potent jolt of energy into their playoff ambitions. With Zion Williamson anchoring the franchise and flashing the kind of dominance that made him the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, the Pelicans are reportedly eyeing yet another former Duke basketball standout to support their centerpiece — a move that could deepen their roster and tap into the chemistry Zion shared with some of his Blue Devil brethren.
The franchise has already invested heavily in building around Williamson, surrounding him with versatile wings, tough defenders, and sharpshooters. However, staying competitive in the ruthless Western Conference requires more than a solid roster — it demands cohesion, consistent health, and star-level production across multiple positions. Adding a player who not only complements Williamson on the court but also understands his style of play and personality could help unlock even more of Zion’s rare potential.
Enter the possibility of the Pelicans acquiring a former Duke teammate or fellow Blue Devil alum, as the 2025 offseason market presents a few intriguing names either available via trade, free agency, or the draft. While Brandon Ingram — another Duke product — has been a core piece of the Pelicans’ rotation for several years, recent trade rumors and speculation about New Orleans potentially shifting its lineup strategy have put his long-term future in question. That opens the door for another Duke connection to fill the void or serve as a supplementary piece.
Among the most talked-about names is Tyus Jones, the crafty veteran point guard who played a key role in Duke’s 2015 national championship run. Though not a former teammate of Williamson, Jones represents the type of high-IQ playmaker that could help stabilize New Orleans’ backcourt and feed Zion in his preferred scoring spots. A pass-first guard with a low turnover rate, Jones thrives in pick-and-roll settings and could serve as a floor general capable of maximizing the Pelicans’ offense when Williamson draws double-teams in the post.
Jones is a free agent this summer, and given the uncertainty surrounding the Washington Wizards’ direction, he may be looking to join a contender. His prior connection to Duke head coach Mike Krzyzewski and his consistent, measured style of play make him an ideal fit for Willie Green’s system. While not a flashy acquisition, adding Jones would signal a strategic shift toward efficiency and experience — two components New Orleans has lacked during its frustrating playoff exits.
But perhaps the most buzzworthy potential Duke-to-Pelicans pipeline move involves the NBA Draft. Should the Pelicans hold a mid-to-late first-round pick, names like Jared McCain or Kyle Filipowski could be on the radar. McCain, a stocky guard known for his confident scoring and deep range, has drawn comparisons to NBA-ready guards like Jalen Brunson. He fits the mold of a modern combo guard who can play both on and off the ball, which could ease the playmaking burden on Williamson while giving New Orleans another capable shot creator.
Filipowski, meanwhile, brings frontcourt versatility and shooting touch that could pair nicely next to Zion. Though he operates primarily as a big, Filipowski’s ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions adds a level of adaptability the Pelicans would benefit from. Given Zion’s need for space and freedom to operate inside, having a floor-spacing forward who can also rebound and pass could elevate the frontcourt synergy to new heights.
For the Pelicans, the appeal of adding another Duke player isn’t purely sentimental or nostalgic. Duke players tend to enter the NBA with high-level preparation, understanding of team concepts, and the kind of mental toughness that translates well to the pros. Many have played in pressure-filled environments and developed habits under Coach K that mesh well with the NBA grind. For Zion, who remains one of the league’s most polarizing stars, having another former Blue Devil in the locker room could provide a stabilizing presence and bring out the best in his leadership.
Zion’s development as a player and as a team leader remains the crux of the Pelicans’ long-term plans. When healthy, he is among the most unstoppable players in the league, boasting an absurd combination of strength, explosiveness, and touch around the basket. However, his health history and the team’s inconsistency have made it difficult to build sustained momentum. Surrounding him with high-character, basketball-savvy players who also understand his journey could lessen the burden and inspire a stronger team identity.
It’s worth noting that the Pelicans’ front office has shown an affinity for players with college pedigree and proven track records, especially from powerhouse programs. Acquiring a Duke product would be in line with their draft and trade history. Furthermore, New Orleans’ existing roster structure — with Zion, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Jose Alvarado — suggests that the team values players who bring more than just stats. It values cohesion, defensive effort, and basketball IQ. Former Duke players typically bring all three.
The chemistry between former college teammates or players from the same program shouldn’t be underestimated. The emotional and psychological comfort that comes from playing alongside someone with a shared experience can often be the difference in close games, tough playoff series, or locker-room adversity. Zion himself has repeatedly spoken about how much he loved his one season at Duke and how those bonds helped shape his understanding of the game and his role as a leader.
In a league where player movement is constant and chemistry can be fleeting, recreating the trust and camaraderie of college can serve as a competitive edge. Teams like the Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics, and Milwaukee Bucks have found success by leaning into continuity and locker-room culture. The Pelicans — often seen as a team with potential but little follow-through — may be trying to build a similar foundation by leaning into what Zion already knows and values.
Of course, everything hinges on timing, availability, and cost. If the Pelicans are forced to part with too many assets to acquire a veteran like Tyus Jones, the move may not be worth it. Similarly, if their draft position doesn’t align with players like McCain or Filipowski, they’ll have to pivot to other options. But the possibility is real, and the fit is intriguing.
From a marketing standpoint, another former Duke star in New Orleans could also be a win. Zion continues to be a fan favorite, and pairing him with a college teammate or another Blue Devil could boost local interest and national visibility. The NBA is driven by storylines, and few narratives are more engaging than old college bonds being rekindled on the biggest stage.
For Zion Williamson, who has faced intense scrutiny, injury setbacks, and the pressure of carrying a small-market franchise to legitimacy, having a piece of his past join his present could serve as a catalyst for the next chapter of his career. The Pelicans, meanwhile, need more than talent — they need fit, familiarity, and functionality. A former Duke player could be the bridge between potential and performance, giving the team another chance to break through the glass ceiling that has loomed over them since Zion’s arrival.
As the 2025 offseason approaches, the Pelicans must be bold but smart. They’ve seen what Zion can do with the right pieces around him — explosive scoring runs, highlight-reel finishes, and moments that make the NBA world take notice. Now it’s about doing everything possible to keep that energy alive for an entire season and beyond. Whether it’s Tyus Jones directing the offense, Jared McCain hitting clutch threes, or Kyle Filipowski providing floor balance, the right Blue Devil could be just what Zion — and New Orleans — needs to rise in the West.
