Photo: Tyler Kaufman / Associated Press

Lonzo Ball might have secured his spot to the Pelicans’ roster at least for the rest of the season. According to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, New Orleans is unlikely to trade their starting guard.

Over his last 18 games, Ball is averaging 16.2 points, 5.4 assists and 4.4 rebounds shooting 45.3% clip on 8.2 attempts per game in that span.

(via Jake Fischer):

“For now, it appears there’s little expectation New Orleans will move Ball before the March 25 trade deadline, sources said.”

‘… The Pelicans are generally optimistic about how he has accepted his secondary role. Many now view the point guard as New Orleans’ third-best player.”

The Pelicans could still trade pieces to upgrade their roster as they are fighting to make the playoffs. In particular, Eric Bledsoe and JJ Redick are still available for a trade, per Fischer.

Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball seem to be three players expected to remain in New Orleans for the struggling Pelicans.

However, the rest of the squad could be expendable for the underperforming Pelicans, who have a 14-19 record heading to the All-Star Break.

The trade deadline is set on March 25.