The New Orleans Pelicans finished their postseason with a first round exit but not before causing the Phoenix Suns a lot of trouble in the playoffs. However Chris Paul in Devin Booker’s absence stepped up and progressed through in the playoffs before they eventually got knocked out.
However, coming to the Pelicans, it is a surprise how they made it to the playoffs without their talisman, Zion Williamson who was out injured. But CJ McCollum found his form in his new organization after getting traded in February and he inspired the team to play better each day and pile up wins that helped them get in the postseason despite missing a major piece on court.
The New Orleans Pelicans are currently looking really strong with a top 10 draft pick, a settle d roster and with Zion Williamson making a return and reports suggest that he is stronger and fitter than ever. So with everything put into perspective, the Pelicans fans must be very excited to head into the offseason where they can fix minor issues and get ready for a thrilling upcoming season in a few months’ time.
Analyzing their situation, Bobby Marks, ESPN insider lauded the organization for the stability and depth they have currently in the roster. “The state of the roster is strong. You’ve got 14 players under contract. We haven’t seen Zion all year. You’re going to have a top 10 pick. … You’ve got Zion and a top 10 pick that’s waiting in the wings that weren’t on the court all year,” Marks stated.
He shared how a full year of CJ McCollum will surely bring out the best from the former Portland man. Whereas the youngsters will also get matured and may take up slightly bigger roles. So they don’t have much to worry about their roster as it looks really good. “You’ll get a full year of CJ McCollum, you’ll get a full year of Larry Nance Jr, you’ll have your younger players develop … so the roster is strong,” he added.
However the primary concern for them is surrounding their star player Zion Williamson who has been injured since his rookie season. He struggled with persistent injury concerns last season but now the people at the organization are hoping that Zion is back at his physical best.
He only played 24 games in his rookie season averaging 22.5 points, 6.3 boards and 2.1 dimes per game. However he needs to improve on his three point tendency as he only shoots 0.6 three pointers per game and hence his shooting percentage is also high giving a wrong conception to people.
In his second season he played in 61 games and averaged 27 points and shot with an efficient 60% shooting accuracy. However his three point tendency remained the same.
He missed the entirety of last season after his foot surgery during the offseason. He has completed rehabilitation and will be raring to get off the blocks for the upcoming season for the Pelicans.
