New Orleans Pelicans: A new starting lineup with Lonzo Ball off the bench

Stan Van Gundy is still trying to figure out the best combination of players for the New Orleans Pelicans starting lineup and rotations.

He hasn’t had an easy job, as early-season cold shooting from the bench has left him shorthanded, with few reliable players in the second unit.

After using Nickeil Alexander-Walker as a starter with Lonzo Ball out with injury, SVG went back to his regular starting five against the Utah Jazz.

For the most part, the starters have not been the problem, though Lonzo Ball and Eric Bledsoe have not shot the ball well.

But moving some parts around could make it easier on the bench and allow certain players to better utilize what they do well.

Stan Van Gundy has also tinkered with some lineups that were effective in short bursts and should be used again.

New Orleans Pelicans: Who will be in the starting lineup vs. the Utah Jazz?

Stan Van Gundy needs to move things around, beginning with getting Nickeil Alexander-Walker back into the starting lineup.

•PG-Nickeil Alexander-Walker

•SG-Eric Bledsoe

•SF-Brandon Ingram

•PF-Zion Williamson

•C-Steven Adams

Lonzo Ball has looked out of place in the Pelicans’ offense lately and might benefit from getting run with a different set of guys (more on that in a minute).

Nickeil Alexander-Walker has used Steven Adams’ screens to get into the lane effectively and has played well with Eric Bledsoe.

Lonzo should still get plenty of run, but I’d rather see him with a group of guys who better fit his skill set. Right now he is just standing around the perimeter watching Brandon Ingram and Zion dribble, so why not put him out there with a group that can run, move more on offense and better use his strengths?

NAW has played better with the starters than off the bench and gives the Pels’ offense another playmaker.

The second unit is where things speed up and could be a way to get Lonzo Ball going.