The New Orleans Pelicans haven’t been considered a contender since the Chris Paul days.
Outside of some seasons with Anthony Davis, the team wasn’t even a clear-cut playoff candidate.
However, they’ve done a solid job of stacking assets and talented players since they traded Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers, and they’re finally starting to reap what they sowed.
The Pelicans have always looked like a team that’s one piece away from being a perennial playoff team.
But now, even despite some injuries, coach Willie Green has them right in the mix.
However, Green isn’t too concerned about this season; he’s looking forward to building for the future.
Talking to Christian Clark of NOLA News, the former NBA player stated that he wants this to be a sustainable project.
“A sustainable, winning culture. It feels like we are trending in a good way right now,” Green said.
Willie Green has said he wants to build a "program" in New Orleans.
“A sustainable, winning culture. It feels like we are trending in a good way right now.” https://t.co/0g6JtCxzMr
— Christian Clark (@cclark_13) March 24, 2024
Green wants the Pelicans to be ‘a program,’ and his vision is coming to fruition.
Even with Brandon Ingram on the shelf and Zion Williamson having an off night, they’ve proven that they can beat playoff teams.
This team has improved significantly on defense, and they will continue to make strides for years to come.
The Pelicans have two legitimate franchise players in Ingram and Williamson, and while they’re not the most appealing free agent destination, they have draft capital and cap space to keep putting pieces around them.
NEXT: Insider Reveals How Much Time Brandon Ingram Will Miss