3 things the New Orleans Pelicans can learn from the Los Angeles Lakers

New Orleans Pelicans: Los Angeles Lakers remind us that defense matters

It’s still all about the D

For the last few seasons all I have heard about is how teams want 3-point shooting. Every narrative is about shooting, how every team needs more and that if you don’t have a team full of shooters you will never win.

It’s funny how those narratives keep getting pushed, yet every year two of the best defensive teams end up in the Finals. Just a coincidence I suppose.

The Lakers and Heat are reminding people that defense matters more than anything, and you have absolutely no chance of winning the title unless your team can defend.

Whether you are talking about the Spurs, Warriors, Raptors or Celtics all of the recent champs were top defensive teams and the same will be true this season.

The Pelicans had the 4th best offense in the league this season and looked unstoppable when they were rolling, but when the games slowed down and they had to defend? It was over.

If the Pelicans are serious about winning a title, they not only have to get some players who value and play defense but a coach who can teach it.

That means passing on Mike D’Antoni for someone like Wes Unseld Jr., drafting a defensive-minded rim protector and looking for toughness and defense in free agency.

If the Pelicans don’t have a top-ten defense next year it won’t matter how good their offense is and they’ll be watching the playoffs from home again.