#4: New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans are looking ahead to the dreaded “no man’s land” of the NBA. They have a superstar, Anthony Davis, and decent talent around him but they are a long way from being contenders. Losing superstar running mate, DeMarcus Cousins, in the offseason did not help, either.
Retaining Davis for the long-term is the Pelicans’ only shot at an NBA Championship for at least the next decade and the organization should be doing everything they can to put more talent around him to convince him to stay. As currently constructed, the Pelicans are a lower level playoff team in the Western Conference, but injuries have to always be of concern with the long history for both Davis and point guard Jrue Holiday.
Julius Randle has been a pleasant surprise this season, showing what he can do with an expanded role after leaving the Lakers this past summer. Nikola Mirotić has also been on fire to start the season and is the ideal fit next to Davis with his scoring capabilities as an offensive rebounder, cutter and three-point marksman.
Elfrid Payton has also been a welcome addition to this team after losing Rajon Rondo in the offseason. The Pelicans also play at the league’s highest pace and score a lot of points with or without their best shot-makers. Adding J.R. Smith would immediately address the need for another playmaker and defender while also adding another option to the speedy offense.
Next Up: Team #3
