9. New Orleans Pelicans
Last season, when the New Orleans Pelicans raced off to a fast start, many questioned how they were doing it. In the end, the injuries caught up with them and they could not overcome them. Heading into this season, there were questions surrounding which version of the Pelicans we’d see. At least through the first couple of weeks of the season, we’re seeing more of last season’s first-half version of the Pelicans than the second half.
That’s a good thing. Interestingly enough, the Pelicans are getting it done on the defensive end of the floor to start off this season. New Orleans ranks in the top 10 of defensive rating and even though their offense likely isn’t where they want it to be at this point in the season, it’s been their saving grace so far.
The trio of C.J. McCollum, Brandon Ingram, and Zion Williamson has gotten off to a great start to the season and if they can remain healthy, they should help keep the Pelicans near the top of the standings in the Western Conference.