New Orleans Pelicans Season Review: Health, Setbacks, and Future Prospects
Welcome to another post on Locked On Fantasy Basketball! Today, we’re diving into the 2023-24 season for the New Orleans Pelicans. We’ll discuss Zion Williamson's health, the futures of Brandon Ingram and Jonas Valanciunas, and Trey Murphy’s breakout potential.
Watch the Full Episode: Catch the full breakdown on YouTube here.
Season Recap
The Pelicans had a rollercoaster season, finishing with a 49-33 record. They showed moments of brilliance but faced significant challenges, leaving their future somewhat uncertain.
Zion Williamson: Health but Inconsistencies
Zion Williamson played 70 games, a huge step forward in terms of availability. However, his finishing at the rim dropped slightly, from 67% to 64%. While still elite, Zion needs to regain his dominant form to help push the Pelicans to the next level.
The Murky Futures of Brandon Ingram and Jonas Valanciunas
Brandon Ingram had a down year, raising questions about his fit with the team. Whispers of a potential trade make his future uncertain.
Jonas Valanciunas remains a polarizing figure. His fit alongside Zion is problematic, particularly on defense. Despite being a solid player, his limitations are evident, and the Pelicans face a dilemma: bring him back or find a more suitable center?
Being Wrong on CJ McCollum
I was wrong about CJ McCollum this season. Despite potential fit issues, CJ maintained his production, averaging 20 points, 3.6 triples, and 4.6 assists per game. However, at 33 years old, caution is warranted for future drafts.
Trey Murphy: Breakout Candidate
Trey Murphy emerged as a breakout candidate. Despite only playing 57 games due to injuries, he showed significant potential, especially when given more minutes. Murphy averaged 15 points, 3 threes, and 5 rebounds per game in just 30 minutes of action. With the possibility of increased minutes next season, he could become a fantasy star.
Looking Ahead
The Pelicans face a critical offseason with many questions to answer. They need to address the center position, decide on the futures of Ingram and Valanciunas, and find a way to maximize Zion’s impact. The potential for trades and roster adjustments makes this a pivotal period for the franchise.
Upcoming Content:
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Mock Drafts: Stay tuned for more mock drafts and analysis leading up to the NBA Draft.
Thanks for reading! Make sure to leave your comments and thoughts on the Pelicans' season and what you think their next moves should be.