NBA: Re-Ranking The Western Conference After Free Agency

Apr 25, 2015; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) reacts after a score by the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter in game four of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at the Smoothie King Center. The Warriors defeated the Pelicans 109-98. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

New Orleans Pelicans

2014-15 Record: 45-37

2015-16 Projected Wins: 40-48

After locking up Anthony Davis for the foreseeable future, now it’s time for them to actually take the next step. The Pelicans (surprisingly) made the playoffs last season, but didn’t really provide a real threat to the Golden State Warriors in round one.

That needs to change this season.

Whether they’re the eighth seed or higher, the Pelicans need to prove that they can be a real threat in the Western Conference. Anthony Davis is only getting better, and with Alvin Gentry now calling the shots, this team’s offense could be deadly by the time the playoffs come around.

Keep an eye on the young Pellies.

Next: No. 6 Memphis Grizzlies