New Orleans Pelicans takes HUGE decision on Zion Williamson, Derik Queen amid Ja Morant buzz

The New Orleans Pelicans have hinted to rival teams that several of their key players, consisting of Zion Williamson and Derik Queen, are off-limits in trade discussions.

New Orleans Pelicans takes big decision on Zion Williamson's future

Other than Williamson and Queen, NBA insider Chris Haynes claimed that New Orleans has told teams that Trey Murphy, Herb Jones and Jeremiah Fears are also untouchable.

"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 tweeted.

With a record of 8-31, the Pelicans have been among the teams rumored to be active in trade talks. They sit at the bottom of the Western Conference and have struggled all season.

In addition, with ESPN's Shams Charania saying that the Memphis Grizzlies are listening to offers for star guard Ja Morant, New Orleans was rumored to be a possible trade partner.

Although, a blockbuster trade for Morant may now be tough to construct, as several players will not be on the trading block.

The Pelicans could still move other role players

The New Orleans Pelicans informing teams that they wish to keep their core intact does not mean inactivity for the franchise. They could still elect to trade players, including the likes of Dejounte Murray, Jordan Poole, Jose Alvarado, Saddiq Bey and Kevon Looney.

Various teams have reportedly shown interest in veterans Looney, Poole and Murray. Alvarado and Bey are also names to watch at the deadline.

Many fans and experts believed the team to retain rookies Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears, who are the two famous spots this season. However, several have been shocked that Joe Dummers and Co. have also decided that Williamson, Murphy and Jones are off limits.

There have been rumors that the New Orleans Pelicans would make big changes in the roster, including trading Williamson, Murphy and Jones. Since the beginning of the season, the three Pelicans have been featured in a number of mock trades.

Despite fitness concerns, Williamson has been effective when healthy, averaging 22.4 points in 23 games. Murphy, New Orleans' second-leading scorer behind Williamson, while Jones is famous as one of the league's top wing defenders.