New Orleans Pelicans: J.J. Redick’s Comments Put 2020 Into Perspective

What a new J.J. Redick interview says about how the New Orleans Pelicans handled the 2019-2020 season

In case you missed it, the well-spoken and charismatic J.J. Redick did an interview with USA Today recently. A three-part Q & A, J.J. Redick touched on a little bit of everything from his love of wine to the NBA’s action against systemic racism, and of course his first season with the New Orleans Pelicans.

That’s what I wanted to focus on, his view of the New Orleans Pelicans 2020 season. I think Redick’s comments about the Pelicans perfectly sum up this past season and gives optimism for 2021.

What J.J. Redick said about the New Orleans Pelicans to USA Today

When reading Redick’s interview, I noticed three major focus points he talked about when talking about the New Orleans Pelicans. Those three points were potential, growth, and professionalism.

When touching on growth and potential, Redick said this, specifically focusing on Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, and Zion Williamson:

"“Each guy is different. But the disposition of having Brandon be that go-to scorer and he came in hungry. You could see it right away with the talent. He took almost every big shot for us last year. He hit some game-winners and had some monster games where he carried us down the stretch. Lonzo, I think you saw his growth as a player and a person. I saw a lot of growth as a leader this year. Then for Zion, again, I think it’s about consistency, being in the lineup and being available and being in shape. His skill level and his talent is an anomaly. There’s not many people in the history of the game that are able to do what he does with his size. For him, there’s no ceiling on what he can become as a player.” – J.J. Redick via USA Today"

Afterward, Redick was asked about the New Orleans Pelicans professionalism, where he gave a candid response:

"“Well, we’re a young team. There’s a certain level of professionalism that we all still are learning. We had some games where we didn’t compete hard enough. That was really disappointing. I thought from a talent perspective and a depth perspective, we were a playoff team this year. So not to reach your potential as a team, you have to be disappointed in that. – J.J Redick via USA Today"

How Redick’s comments put the 2019-2020 season into perspective for the New Orleans Pelicans

When I read this, I instantly thought that Redick hit the nail on the head. He detailed the growth that the Pelicans’ young stars experienced this year while still making sure to note how far they have to go.

Then, Redick was honest when talking about the New Orleans Pelicans’ recent struggles in the bubble. He said the team’s still learning how to be professional which is great because most fans viewed the team’s bubble run as unprofessional. To me, these comments showcase that last season was just a building block.

Redick finished his interview saying that the goal for the Pelicans in 2021 is making the playoffs, and I agree. With more growth during this offseason unlocking more of the New Orleans Pelicans potential, I think we see a better team next season.

What does concern me about this team still though is their professionalism. I appreciate Redick talking about the Pelicans’ struggles in the bubble, but I’ve already started to question what happens if there’s a bubble in 2021. Can we trust this team to be more professional in 2021?

We’re still waiting on that answer which is why I want the New Orleans Pelicans to sign some veterans this offseason. Overall, I loved J.J. Redick’s open and honest interview which I think is definitely worth checking out. It put 2020 in perspective and should get everyone excited for 2021.