Strong veteran presence
There’s an argument to be made that the Pelicans are right there; they’re close to contention in the West. And we’ve seen how big of a jump one team can make from one season to another with the Kings. However, I feel like the Pelicans are a veteran or two away from getting there. Jonas Valanciunas and C.J. McCollum have been great veterans for the team, but they could really use one off the bench.
I understand that part of the Pelicans’ success is due to their young and athleticism but there is something to experience that does make a difference, especially for such a talented young team. And perhaps the Pelicans could find themselves in the same position as Sacramento next season.
Maybe the veteran additions come in the way of the team adding depth to other positions, maybe it comes by adding a player on a minimum, perhaps someone like Patrick Beverley. It’s something the Pelicans should pursue.
New Orleans is close. I firmly believe that. And they may in fact be one offseason away from being a real contender in the West.