New Orleans Pelicans Rank: Jrue Holiday Roundtable

April 3, 2015; Sacramento, CA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard

(11) during the fourth quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Sleep Train Arena. The Pelicans defeated the Kings 101-95. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Ever since he arrived in New Orleans via a draft day trade that cost the New Orleans Pelicans two first round picks, Jrue Holiday has become a bit of a controversial figure. To some Holiday has represented the Pelicans attempt to rush the rebuilding process, as he has been unable to live up to the cost of those two first round picks. To others, Holiday represents the bad luck that the Pelicans have had as the cost turned out to be not that much when looking at the players available in those draft picks, yet injuries have cost Holiday the opportunity to truly show his worth.

No matter which side of the debate people fall on one thing is clear; the Pelicans are a significantly better team with Holiday on the floor. Thanks to his incredible perimeter defense and calm and patience on offense, the Pelicans have looked at their best with Holiday’s playmaking complimenting Tyreke Evans and Anthony Davis.

As we head into the 2015-2016 season, Holiday’s health is at the forefront of the questions surrounding the Pelicans. It has already been reported that Holiday will be on a minutes restriction to start the season in an effort to keep him healthy throughout the entire season.

If he is healthy for all 82 games, or at least 75 or so, the Pelicans could be in line to see the type of team that the front office imagined when they made the move to acquire Holiday. With important summers and decisions approaching for New Orleans, that could be one of the most important things the team can ask for this year.

Next: His Health