A Deep Dive into Potential Question Marks Looming for the Pelicans This Offseason

The New Orleans Pelicans, despite their recent setback, find themselves at a critical juncture as the basketball season winds down and teams gear up for the offseason. The Pelicans had what many consider a successful regular season, and while their first-round exit was disappointing, it's important to remember that they've just been through another season full of ups and downs. They now face many pressing questions that may shape the franchise's future, but with the right moves, they have the potential to bounce back stronger than ever. 

The Pelicans' sweep at the hands of the Thunder in the playoffs was a stark reminder of the team's shortcomings and the work they need to do to improve. However, it's crucial to note that this was not a reflection of their true potential. Despite the brilliance of Zion Williamson during the season and in the Play-In games, his injury late in the fourth quarter of the second Play-In game was a stroke of bad luck for the Pelican's first-round hopes. Brandon Ingram, too, was not at his best due to health issues. The Pelicans lacked the depth and cohesion to compete at the highest level, but these are issues that can be addressed and improved upon in the game moving forward.

Here are some key issues the Pelicans must address during the offseason:

Finding a True Point Guard

CJ McCollum is a really good guard, but watching the Pelicans' offense, particularly in the half-court, it's clear they need a primary playmaker who can get their best players the ball in better spots. Moving CJ to the shooting guard position would allow him not to have to create as much and would allow him to do what he does best: to be a secondary and off-the-ball scorer.

Brandon Ingram’s Future

It’s no secret Brandon Ingram is an all-star caliber player who, when healthy, is a dynamic scorer of elite size and a matchup nightmare. The question, however, remains the same with him. Can he be available consistently when it matters? That has been a resounding no for the Pelicans. Ingram did not do himself any favors by underperforming in the four games versus the Thunder, be it playing through injuries. The Pelicans may have to make a tough decision on the 26-year-old forward, a free agent next offseason. The Pelicans will seriously have to consider trading Ingram this offseason if they do not hand him the Supermax extension. Especially with the emergence of Trey Murphy, things will be getting too expensive in New Orleans.

Zion Williamson and Front Court Partner

Building around Zion should be the clear focal point after what we saw during this season for the Pelicans. With Jonas Valanciunas headed for free agency, it's time the Pelicans find Zion a better Center to play with. Valanciunas is a good player, but with fit with Zion is rather not good. We saw this when he would get kicked off the floor for key moments because the team wanted to be more athletic or have more defensive versatility. Getting a big who is more mobile and offers more defensive help should be a priority for New Orleans. 

Heading into an important offseason, the New Orleans Pelicans are trying to reset from an unsuccessful playoff experience and chart a course to sustainable success. As they head into the offseason, no other challenge confronts the team, from health concerns to roster reconstruction. If the franchise executes wisely and with a purpose that is stronger and more competitive than ever, it is possible for the team to really have a fantastic year. The Pelicans' offseason in 2024 is indeed a pivotal moment in the franchise's future. It might set the course toward greatness for years to come.