The New Orleans Pelicans could use a few gifts this Christmas.
The New Orleans Pelicans have a new coach, five new players and renewed hope behind the early play of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball, so many of their Christmas wishes have already been filled.
They got the center they needed in Steven Adams, some early improvement from the young players and a scrappy guard in Eric Bledsoe who will somewhat fill the void left by Jrue Holiday.
But the Pelicans still have some things they need to improve and some holes that need to be filled. Here are three things on their Christmas wish list, starting on the court and ending with some weaknesses in the roster.
New Orleans Pelicans: 3 Christmas wishes for the Pels
Wish #1
May the Pelicans get a stocking full of free throws
If the early season is any indication, the Pelicans can make a living at the free-throw line.
Their team free throw attempts and percentage are both improved in the early going, especially Zion Williamson, who looks as though he is going to feast at the line.
But Lonzo Ball still needs to get there with more frequency and show that he can make them consistently, which will add another level to his improving game.
With Zion Williamson and Steven Adams in the middle, the Pels have the chance to get a lot of points in the paint and rack up a ton of fouls on the other team.
This puts pressure on the opponent in terms of points, as well as getting guys in foul trouble.
The Pelicans hope this early-season trend isn’t a fad and that the free throws will keep coming. The Pels were near the bottom of the league in percentage last year, so the ability to hit free throws will bring more wins in the new year.
Now, let’s focus on personnel.