New Orleans Pelicans Season Preview
Re-signed: None
Additions: Jamal Cain (free agent), Javonte Green (free agent), Dejounte Murray (trade), Daniel Theis (free agent)
Draft Picks: Yves Missi (No. 21 overall), Antonio Reeves (No. 47)
Departures: Dyson Daniels, E.J. Liddell, Larry Nance Jr., Cody Zeller (all to Hawks), Naji Marshall (to Mavericks), Jonas Valančiūnas (to Wizards)
Unsigned Free Agents: Dereon Seabron
Last Season Recap
The New Orleans Pelicans had a solid 2023-24 season, winning 49 games and competing well in the tough Western Conference. Zion Williamson managed to play a career-high 70 games before being sidelined in the Play-In Tournament, which left him still without a playoff appearance despite his high-level performance (22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5 assists per game). Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, and Trey Murphy provided steady contributions, keeping the team competitive on most nights.
Summer Summary
The Pelicans made a major move by acquiring Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks, a significant addition that bolsters their ball-handling, shooting, and perimeter defense. Murray’s versatility should complement Zion’s inside presence and Ingram’s scoring ability. However, the loss of Jonas Valančiūnas, who left for Washington in free agency, creates a noticeable gap in their frontcourt, compounded by the departure of Larry Nance Jr. in the Murray trade.
While the Pelicans signed Daniel Theis to provide some size, it’s likely they will continue searching for additional frontcourt depth throughout the season.
Player Spotlight: Brandon Ingram
Brandon Ingram’s status is one to watch closely. Over the summer, there was speculation that Ingram might be on the trade block due to contract extension hesitations. As he enters the final year of his current deal, making $36 million, Ingram will likely be motivated to play at a high level, both for the Pelicans and for his own contract future. This could work to New Orleans’ advantage, as they look to make a deep playoff push.
Season Outlook
The Pelicans’ success this season hinges largely on Zion Williamson’s health. If Zion can stay on the floor and return to his All-NBA level of play, the Pelicans have the potential to win 50-plus games and finish in the top six in the Western Conference, avoiding the Play-In Tournament. Dejounte Murray adds a strong two-way presence, and with key players like Trey Murphy, Herb Jones, and Jose Alvarado entering their primes, the Pelicans are well-positioned to compete.
However, the team’s lack of frontcourt depth remains a concern, and addressing that will be key to their playoff hopes. With CJ McCollum still a scoring threat and a solid rotation, New Orleans could be a dangerous team if everything clicks, but much depends on Zion’s availability and the overall health of their stars.
