Pelicans aim for playoff breakthrough with Zion in 2024
- The New Orleans Pelicans finished last season with a 49-33 record but were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.
- Zion Williamson, who played 70 games last season, is expected to lead the team alongside new addition Dejounte Murray.
- The Pelicans aim to win their first playoff series since drafting Williamson, facing challenges with frontcourt depth.
In the United States, the New Orleans Pelicans are gearing up for the upcoming NBA season, aiming to achieve playoff success for the first time since drafting Zion Williamson first overall in 2019. Last season, the team finished with a 49-33 record but was eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Williamson, who played 70 games last season, showcased his talent before suffering a hamstring injury during a play-in game, which sidelined him for the playoffs. The Pelicans have made significant roster changes, including the addition of guard Dejounte Murray, who is expected to enhance the team's offensive capabilities. The team also features established players like CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram, although Ingram's future with the franchise remains uncertain due to trade speculations. The coaching staff has high expectations for Williamson, who is still developing his game and maturing as a player. Despite their offensive strengths, the Pelicans face challenges, particularly in their frontcourt depth. With only one true center, rookie Yves Missi, the team may rely on a small-ball strategy, utilizing forwards like Herb Jones and Daniel Theis in the center position. This could impact their defensive capabilities and overall performance throughout the season. As the Pelicans prepare for their season opener against the Chicago Bulls on October 23, the focus will be on how well the new roster can gel and whether they can finally secure a playoff series victory, fulfilling the expectations set by the franchise and its fans.