The New Orleans Pelicans made a big splash this summer by acquiring two-way guard Dejounte Murray to pair with All-Stars Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. The Pelicans have steadily built a talented roster with some capable role players as well, as they could be guaranteed a playoff spot in the 2024-25 season if their players mesh together. We will divide the Pelicans roster into six tiers, starting with the talents of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
Tier 1: Superstars
None
Tier 2: All-Stars
Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram
Zion Williamson, when healthy, is one of the most dominant physical forces in the NBA. Last season, he averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, showing his ability to impact games on both ends of the floor. With his combination of size, speed, and skill, Zion is the focal point of the Pelicans’ offense, and his continued health and development are crucial for the team’s success. However, Williamson should probably be a Tier 1 superstar but we have not seen enough consistency from him just yet. Hopefully, the big man will jump to another level this season.
Despite being involved in some trade rumors this summer, Brandon Ingram continues to establish himself as a versatile and efficient scoring forward, capable of carrying the offensive load. In the 2023-24 season, Ingram averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, showcasing his ability to create for himself and his teammates. Ingram’s silky smooth jump shot and improved playmaking make him a consistent All-Star threat in the competitive Western Conference.
Tier 3: Fringe All-Stars
Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum
Dejounte Murray brings a unique blend of playmaking, defense, and scoring to the Pelicans’ backcourt as the key addition in the summer. Last season, he posted 22.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game, along with 1.4 steals, reflecting his all-around game. Murray’s defensive prowess and ability to run the offense will be key in complementing the scoring talents of Williamson and Ingram. Expect Murray to fit in perfectly well in the Pelicans roster as it pertains to defense and scoring.
CJ McCollum remains a reliable veteran presence who can score in bunches and provide leadership on and off the court. In the 2023-24 season, McCollum averaged 20.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, delivering steady production as a second or third option. Known for his craftiness and mid-range game, McCollum will look to be the glue that holds the Pelicans’ dynamic roster together.
Tier 4: Key Role Players
Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III, Jordan Hawkins, Jose Alvarado
Herb Jones is a defensive specialist who can guard multiple positions and bring energy to the lineup. Last season, he averaged 11.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game, making a significant impact as a perimeter defender. Jones’ ability to disrupt opponents and hit timely shots will make him a key part of the Pelicans’ rotation. The 2023-24 All-Defensive First Team member will hope to take another level forward in the upcoming season.
Trey Murphy III continues to develop as a 3-and-D wing, providing valuable shooting and versatility. In the 2023-24 season, he averaged 14.8 points and 4.9 rebounds per game while shooting 39.6% from three-point range. Murphy’s floor spacing and defensive abilities will be essential for the Pelicans, especially in a lineup that features multiple stars needing room to operate.
Jordan Hawkins, a promising young guard, adds scoring and shooting to the Pelicans’ rotation. As a second-year player, Hawkins will be expected to provide a spark off the bench with his ability to shoot from deep and create his own shot. His development in his second NBA season will be crucial for the Pelicans’ depth and bench scoring, especially after the No. 14 overall pick posted 7.8 points and 2.2 rebounds per game on 36.6% from three.
Jose Alvarado has earned a reputation as a scrappy, energetic guard who can change the game with his defense. He averaged 7.1 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game last season, often making game-changing plays with his pesky on-ball defense. Alvarado’s intensity and ability to disrupt opposing offenses make him a valuable asset in the Pelicans’ guard rotation.
Tier 5: Supplementary Pieces
Daniel Theis, Javonte Green
Daniel Theis brings size, defense, and rebounding to the Pelicans’ frontcourt as a veteran big man. Known for his shot-blocking and ability to set strong screens, Theis averaged 6.3 points and 4.1 rebounds per game last season. His experience and defensive presence will be important for the Pelicans when they need to match up against bigger lineups.
Javonte Green is an athletic forward who provides hustle and defensive energy off the bench. He averaged 12.2 points and 7.4 rebounds per game in only nine appearances last season, often impacting games with his ability to make effort plays. Despite the small sample size last year, Green’s versatility to guard multiple positions and his tenacity will give the Pelicans added depth and flexibility in their rotations.
Tier 6: Bench
Yves Missi, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, Matt Ryan, Karlo Matkovic, Antonio Reeves
Yves Missi is a young big man who will be looking to earn minutes and develop his game in his rookie season. With a focus on shot-blocking and rebounding, Missi’s impact will be seen in his hustle and effort on the defensive end and on the boards as a 20-year-old Belgian who was taken No. 21 overall in the 2024 Draft.
Jeremiah Robinson-Earl is a forward who can stretch the floor with his shooting and provide solid minutes in the frontcourt. While his role is currently limited after only appearing in 8.6 minutes per game last year, his ability to knock down shots and play within the team system could see him earn more opportunities as the season progresses.
Matt Ryan is a shooter who will likely be utilized in spot minutes to provide spacing and three-point shooting. His ability to come in and knock down shots could be crucial in certain matchups where floor spacing is needed, and the forward averaged a scintillating 45.1% from deep last year.
Karlo Matkovic, taken No. 52 overall in the 2022 Draft, is a young center with size and potential who will be looking to develop his skills in the NBA. His focus will be on honing his defensive abilities and rebounding to find a consistent role with the Pelicans.
Antonio Reeves, the No. 47 overall pick in the 2024 Draft, is a versatile shooting guard who brings energy and scoring ability off the bench. He will be looking to prove himself in limited opportunities by showcasing his ability to create his own shot and contribute on both ends of the floor.
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