Fans across the NBA are currently riveted by the New Orleans Pelicans.
The team had a whole slew of issues this year and for a while, it seemed like they wouldn’t come even close to the postseason.
However, they are now 2-2 with the number-one seed Phoenix Suns in a barnburner of a series that is making must-see TV.
What’s been New Orleans’ recipe for success?
It might surprise you.
pelicans are creating the blueprint for success here:
– draft a generational talent at #1
– don't play him all season
– trade for an all star scorer at the deadline
– finish 10 games below .500
– allow the #35 pick and an undrafted guy cause chaos against the #1 NBA team— Matt Ellentuck (@mellentuck) April 25, 2022
Matt Ellentuck on Twitter humorously pointed out how the Pelicans found success.
He highlighted the Pelicans’ plans to lose their biggest star for the entire year, finish the season 10 games below .500, and then let the 35th pick in the draft and an undrafted player come out swinging against the top-seeded team.
When you put it that way, it sure looks easy.
Powerful Pels
While it might seem like New Orleans’ path to the playoffs was wild and random, there is a method to the madness.
Head coach Willie Green should really be commended for what he’s done for this team.
He has believed in his squad all year long and never lost faith in them.
The breakout success of both Herb Jones and Jose Alvarado in the playoffs is a prime example of that.
These two rookies are doing incredible work because they have been given the chance to.
Meanwhile, Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, Jonas Valanciunas, and others are just getting better because Green has found a system that allows them to work expertly together.
The team used to sit at the bottom of the Western Conference standings but Green knew he had something special – he just needed to foster things and never lose faith.
Look at the Pelicans now.
Even if the team doesn’t win in this first round, they will walk away very proud of what they accomplished.
They are officially a team to watch.
NEXT: Herb Jones Is Proving His Value On Defense With Must-See Blocks