Can the Pelicans Make a Run This Season?
The New Orleans Pelicans are coming off one of the worst seasons in the team's history. In the 2024-2025 season, the Pelicans finished the regular season with 21 wins and 61 losses. Injuries throughout the entire season plagued their roster, and very early on, it was clear that there would be no hope for the Pelicans to achieve any modicum of success. However, going into the 2025-2026 season, the Pelicans have still maintained a competent roster, and assuming their injury luck isn't as bad as it was last season, they have a chance for a redemption season.
The Pelicans don't have a chance to be competitive without Zion Williamson. Their star power forward is the lifeblood of the team, and when he's at his best, he's one of the best players in the league; however, his injury history makes him unreliable to build around. However, he's recently slimmed down in his appearance to speak to the media, and appears to be in the best shape of his career. If the Pelicans can get a healthy Zion this year, they may be able to make a run for a playoff seed. Zion's playstyle relies on his driving ability and raw power to finish at the rim. At his best, he's able to have 27 points on solid efficiency. Zion's ability to draw attention to the interior naturally creates opportunities for perimeter shooters. The Pelicans have made a move that takes advantage of this strength with the Jordan Poole trade. While playing for the Washington Wizards, Poole wasn't able to play with an interior threat of Zion's caliber. If he's able to take advantage of the attention Zion commands, then it's likely he'll have a career season. The Pelicans also have a solid defensive core led by Herbert Jones, one of the best defensive wings in the league.
While the Pelicans have the potential to improve from last season, even with a healthy roster, it isn't likely they'll be able to capture a playoff seed and instead will be left fighting for a playing spot. The current Western Conference is a bloodbath, and the teams they'll be competing against have more depth, top-end talent, and continuity. The teams the Pelicans will be competing against will be young teams looking to make a push, like the San Antonio Spurs, who have the potential to be a dangerous team this season. If the Pelicans can make it to a play-in seed and have a competitive game, then going into the next season, they will be able to determine if the team could be a top contender if moves are made.
