The New Orleans Pelicans have a rematch of the 2015 NBA Playoffs brewing between them and the Golden State Warriors. This rematch could be a great series because of one difference maker.
Let’s revisit the 2015 NBA Playoffs first-round series between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Golden State Warriors. First thing, New Orleans was swept by Golden State 4-0. It was also Anthony Davis‘ first taste of the NBA Playoffs. The roster of that New Orleans team is vastly different from the current roster.
The 2015 New Orleans roster featured quite a few guards. Eric Gordon, Quincy Pondexter, Norris Cole, Tyreke Evans, and Jrue Holiday were all on this roster. Now, the Pelicans are paced with Rajon Rondo and a budding All-NBA Jrue Holiday.
The 2015 Golden State Warriors team had Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green. They did not have Kevin Durant. As a result, this Golden State Warriors team has more offensive weapons within their starting five than any other NBA team.
The difference-maker for the New Orleans Pelicans
When you compare these two teams this season, one thing stands out for New Orleans. Rajon Rondo. Rondo has been there and done that. He’s gone toe-to-toe with the Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant in two NBA Finals. He’s directed two of the NBA’s most respected players in Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce.
Rondo is the type of player that can help New Orleans maintain their composure when Golden State goes on a run. The defensive promise that he and Jrue Holiday showed during the Portland series will be of concern for Golden State.
One thing about Rondo is he knows how to win. Also, New Orleans is backing Rondo in every regard. Head coach Alvin Gentry has confidence in Rondo’s ability to lead this team. Not only that, Rondo’s ability to get Anthony Davis the ball in his sweet spots is also troubling for the Warriors.
I can personally guarantee that New Orleans will not fall to the Warriors in the form of a sweep. This series has the potential to go the distance. Rondo’s leadership and Holiday’s advancement will be the key’s to beating this Golden State team.
Golden State is not as fearsome as they once were. The 58-24 Warriors had their worst regular season record since Mark Jackson was their head coach. Injuries and a serious lack of consistent depth have been problematic for Golden State.
Last season, the Warriors lost one time in the postseason. That was to Cleveland in the NBA Finals. This season, they’ve lost once in the first-round to San Antonio. They’re not what they once were, they are beatable.
Next: The difference-maker for New Orleans in the second-round
At the end of the day, what I am saying is this, the Pelicans can win this series.