Detroit Pistons vs. New Orleans Pelicans 2019-20 season preview
Pelicans offseason changes
The Pelicans had as eventful of an offseason as any team in the league, adding nine impact players to Holiday, Okafor and E’Twaun Moore.
Landing the first pick in the 2019 NBA Draft netted them Zion Williamson, an athletic specimen. A combination of picks and draft-day trades landed them Texas center Jaxson Hayes and Virginia Tech wing Nickeil Alexander-Walker, the cousin of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
light. Related Story. Grading the Pistons 2019 offseason moves
Moving on from Davis gave the Pelicans a slew of young talent by acquiring Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart and Brandon Ingram, giving them instant depth at several positions. All three gained valuable experience last year with the Los Angeles Lakers, who dealt with injuries and roster moves throughout a tough 2018-19 season.
As if that wasn’t enough of a haul, the Pelicans signed veteran sharpshooter J.J. Redick and traded for veteran forward Derrick Favors.
The balance of playing time between the veterans and young players will be interesting. Alvin Gentry will have plenty of decisions to make, trying to construct the most efficient lineups and also allowing the young players to grow with playing time.
Here’s a look at how the two teams should stack up.