The trade benefits both side, in the short span of time Lakers become aspirant for this season, while in the long process if Pelicans able to kept there squad and norture them to build a good chemistry together., They can create another super team inside the league.
Having the first pick does not mean that they will be a great team in the future, this still depends on a lot of factors and of course we cannot underestimate the possibility of injuries which we hope won't happen.
But Lakers is the most beneficial for the trade. Remember that Anthony Davis is first rank in draft pick too which already proves his worth. But Zion Williamson showing the strong game in the pre-season.
So Pelicans might form a good team too once they fully utilize Zion. But I doubt that they will enter the play-offs. There are too many strong teams in the West right now.
The only teams that can guarantee a spot in play-offs in the western conference are GSW and Lakers.
I definitely agree with you, since the Pelicans players are still young. Maybe they can make it to the playoffs but most likely they will not reach the conference finals.
When I say good, it aint that bad. 
