NBA: Ranking every team’s starting backcourt heading into 2018-19

NEW ORLEANS, LA – APRIL 19: Jrue Holiday #11 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts after scoring a three pointer during Game 3 of the Western Conference playoffs against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Smoothie King Center on April 19, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

22. Elfrid Payton, Jrue Holiday – New Orleans Pelicans

After losing Rajon Rondo via free agency to the Los Angeles Lakers this summer, the New Orleans Pelicans will try to replace his presence as the team’s starting point guard with Jrue Holiday. Payton is coming off his best season of his career thus far, and he’s still quite young, so it isn’t the worst idea.

Jrue Holiday is coming off a sneaky great season, too. At the same time, this backcourt combination leaves a lot to be desired. Especially if they’re tasked with having to play next to the great Anthony Davis.

And the backcourt’s job becomes even tougher this season, as the team lost DeMarcus Cousins to the defending champion Golden State Warriors during the summer.