16. New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans are an interesting team to keep an eye on in the Western Conference. With the return of Zion Williamson, the Pelicans are a team that could emerge as a dark horse this season. Depending on how he looks, he could add an interesting element to an already strong duo in CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram.
The biggest question for the Pelicans, unfair or not, revolves around their ability to remain healthy. They haven’t been able to do so with Zion on the roster, but perhaps this is finally the year where they can buck that trend.
The West may not be considered top-heavy this season but there are so many teams that will be in the running for a playoff spot that it’s no guarantee the Pelicans snag one. But the talent is in place for this season to be a special one for New Orleans.