New Orleans Pelicans: The 5 biggest takeaways from media day

The new guys from the Los Angeles Lakers trade seem comfortable as New Orleans Pelicans

When they went to the podium, Josh Hart, Lonzo Ball, and Brandon Ingram stepped out from behind the shadow of the Anthony Davis trade, all sounding more excited to grow in New Orleans than scared by their swapping.

In particular, Ball’s enthusiasm for the present and future was refreshing.

Not involved in today’s talking points was LaVar Ball, who earlier this offseason called his son, “damaged goods.”

When he took the podium today, Ball was poised, kind, and confident in his answers. Speaking on the team and his own offseason, Ball told reporters, “we’re gonna go fast. I’m just working on my jump shot and off pick and rolls for the last month.”

Brandon Ingram didn’t have much to give in terms of a big quote, but he’s never going to be that kind of guy.

For those unfamiliar to his disposition, Ingram is infamously chill and it’s pretty unsurprising that he didn’t get too vocal about anything today. He said all the right things and doesn’t seem rattled by the rush, which is good enough for the time being.

Despite his chilled demeanor, Ingram overall expressed excitement about the New Orleans Pelicans, especially about the chance the squad has for defensive excellence. Ingram said, “defensively we could be really good, but it starts with principals. We have to be there for each other, trust each other, stay in front of our man, but really trust each other.”

Josh Hart, who is increasing his own media profile, has been getting comfortable in New Orleans all offseason and shared his enjoyment in that process. “At the end of the day, we’re about the team, it’s not about individuals,” Hart told reporters.

These three are going to have a big hand in the wins and loses column for the New Orleans Pelicans this offseason, so it’s incredibly encouraging to hear that they’re finding their comfort zones in the Big Easy.