NBA Power Rankings: Where all 30 teams stand after the draft, free agency

19. New Orleans Pelicans

Key offseason move: Re-signed Herbert Jones 

The New Orleans Pelicans had an interesting offseason. Heading into the 2023 NBA Draft, the Pelicans found themselves at the center of trade whispers as Zion Williamson appeared to be a star on the block. However, as you would expect, the Pelicans didn’t end up trading Zion. And that was probably for the best. In a vacuum, it really didn’t make sense for the Pelicans to trade Zion and it could’ve been something that the team could’ve grown to regret pretty quickly.

The frustrating part of Zion’s existence has nothing to do with his ability and everything to do with his health. If he could remain healthy and wasn’t labeled as injury-prone, he would be considered one of the best players in the NBA. That’s a hope the Pelicans should hold on to heading into this season.

If Zion (and the rest of the roster) can remain healthy, the Pelicans could be a dark horse contender in the Western Conference. This team is that talented. Last season, before they were decimated by injury, they were sitting atop the West standings nearly midway through the season. Maybe they could replicate some of that success this season.