New Orleans Pelicans Most Anticipated 2019-20 Lineups
The New Orleans Pelicans have a balanced positional depth chart. Throwing different looks at teams without the Pelicans depth will be key to accumulating enough wins to claim a playoff spot.
Stoppages in play call for situational basketball. Alvin Gentry will have plenty of options to exploit less talented teams and challenge the title contenders.
Popping Shots Galore: Josh Hart, JJ Redick, E’Twaun Moore, Darius Miller, Nicolo Melli
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For all of his greatness, Jrue Holiday is not considered a lethal shooter. His 35.5% career average is, well, average. When an out of bounds play calls for a squad of shooters, Holiday should be moved to the point, if not the bench. Should Gentry put the top five three-point shooters on the court, Holiday would not make the grade.
However, it has yet to be seen whether Melli will be worth his millions. If not, Frank Jackson or Nickeil Alexander-Walker might find a few more spare minutes while Holiday rests. Their shots need to be tested on the big stage.
Pack the Paint Rebounding Squad: Lonzo Ball, E’Twaun Moore, Zion Williamson, Derrick Favors, Jaxson Hayes/Jahlil Okafor
When in need of a rebound Alvin Gentry could deploy Moore and Lonzo to tower over any guards. Especially in times of saving or not having a timeout, the Pelicans could secure a rebound and still be quick on the runout. This big lineup should be able to pound the paint for buckets. Zion, Favors, and any other person over 6’10” should be able to handle frontcourt rebound threats.
Break Out the Bayou Transition Team: Lonzo Ball, Jrue Holiday, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson
When in need of speed, send in the youth. Jrue Holiday still has wheels and the basketball smarts to match. Sometimes youth plays faster than it thinks. Gentry could send out this lineup, which can get down the court quick to score before the defense can think. All the Pelicans would have to ponder is how to celebrate the open court dunk.