With the New Orleans Pelicans growing into a legitimate contender in the Western Conference this season, the team could reportedly swing a blockbuster deal ahead of the NBA trade deadline.

Before star Zion Williamson went down with a hamstring injury earlier this month, the Pelicans were one of the hottest teams in the league. The roster had three All-Star-level talents in Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum, but staying healthy and building chemistry was their biggest hurdle. And over the first three months, they proved that the parts fit and were for real.

Despite the injury to their big man, the New Orleans Pelicans still own a 26-23 record and hold the fourth spot in the Western Conference standings. Williamson will eventually return, and if he can overcome his injury demons, this team could give powerhouses like the Denver Nuggets and Memphis Grizzlies a legitimate challenge in the postseason.

Nevertheless, the Pelicans could still use some upgrades to rise to the status of a serious title contender. One area they need to improve is on defense, where they are in the middle of the pack in the NBA. And it seems the organization is looking at one highly coveted talent in the Eastern Conference as a possible answer.