Early trends are positive for Stan Van Gundy and the New Orleans Pelicans.
The New Orleans Pelicans only played two preseason games but there are already some encouraging trends developing under Stan Van Gundy.
SVG was brought in to improve the defense, limit turnovers and teach the young Pelicans the nuances of how to play basketball.
So far the signs are encouraging. Zion Williamson is in shape, playing big minutes and looks more focused on the defensive end.
Same with Brandon Ingram, who also hopes to improve on the defensive end and take the next step to superstardom.
Lonzo Ball was confident and efficient running the offense and Steven Adams has definitely improved the center spot on both ends.
All signs are pointing upwards for the New Orleans Pelicans, and here are three key trends from the preseason to keep an eye on.
New Orleans Pelicans: Stan Van Gundy has fixed the defense.
Trend #1: Defensive Improvement
Stan Van Gundy was brought in to fix the Pels’ woeful defense and so far, it appears it is working. The Pels did let up 113 to the Bucks in the second game, but it largely came via two big quarters.
The Pels locked them down in the first and fourth and looked a lot more focused and intense in the process. The defensive intensity for these two preseason games was higher than at any point last season, which is a compliment to Stan Van Gundy.
The biggest difference has been points in the paint, as the Pels were one of the league’s worst last season, allowing 52.2 per game.
They allowed 38 points in the paint in game one and 44 in game two, a marked improvement that can be attributed to the addition of Steven Adams.
If the Pels can limit easy baskets, their defense will improve immensely, as it was one of their biggest weaknesses last season.