Pelicans Struggle Early in Season, Grapple with Injuries
The New Orleans Pelicans are confronting a turbulent start to their NBA season, struggling to build momentum with a record of 3-8. After missing the playoffs last season and suffering a first-round sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Pelicans were hopeful for a turnaround. However, a combination of injuries and defensive woes have cast a shadow over the team’s early days.
Central to the Pelicans’ struggles is the absence of star player Zion Williamson. Williamson is out indefinitely due to a hamstring injury, a significant setback considering his pivotal role. He played 70 regular-season games last year, a feat that underscored his durability and impact on the court. Without him, the team appears to be missing a crucial component of their offensive and defensive strategies.
Adding to the injury woes, the Pelicans' roster is further depleted with key players such as Jose Alvarado and CJ McCollum sidelined. Alvarado is nursing a hamstring injury, while McCollum is dealing with an adductor strain. Furthermore, Herb Jones is expected to miss two to four weeks starting October 29 due to a mild rotator cuff tear, and Jordan Hawkins is out with a back strain. This wave of injuries has left the Pelicans scrambling to adjust their lineups and tactics.
The defensive end tells an even more somber story. The Pelicans are currently ranked 29th across the NBA in defense—a statistic that reflects their recent games all too well. They have lost eight of their last nine outings by a combined margin of 126 points, a testament to their defensive frailties. This underperformance on defense is undermining what little offensive consistency they can muster, given the depleted roster.
Off the court, the team is also faced with looming contractual decisions. Brandon Ingram, a critical player for the Pelicans, is in the final year of his contract, adding another layer of uncertainty to the team's roster dynamics. The decisions the franchise will make regarding Ingram could have long-term implications for their competitive positioning.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans do have a promising array of assets, with seven first-round picks between 2025 and 2031. These potential picks offer a degree of flexibility and hope for the future. Of particular note is their swap rights with the Milwaukee Bucks in 2026, originating from the Jrue Holiday trade. For these rights to convey, Milwaukee's 2025 pick must fall within the top four, a scenario the Pelicans are undoubtedly keeping an eye on as it could significantly boost their rebuilding efforts.
Around the league, other teams also face challenges. Notably, Dejounte Murray suffered a broken hand on NBA opening night but is expected to return to action by late November. His return highlights the broader theme of resilience and the importance of player health in shaping the season's narrative.
As they navigate these early-season challenges, the Pelicans must rely on their depth and strategic adjustments. The potential return of key players like Williamson, matched with their long-term draft assets, could provide a foundation for future success. However, their immediate priority remains addressing their defensive deficiencies and overcoming the adversities posed by their current injury list.
In a fiercely competitive Western Conference, the Pelicans’ journey will require resilience, strategic adjustments, and perhaps a bit of luck to turn their fortunes around. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as the season progresses, hoping for a revitalization that reflects the promise and potential of their talented roster.