New Orleans Pelicans: 3 reasons this frustrating season was a success

New Orleans Pelicans: Jaxson Hayes, Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Naji Marshall

Even though the New Orleans Pelicans didn’t meet all of their goals, they did get some nice progress out of three of their young players.

Jaxson Hayes emerged after being benched and played very well down the stretch, often looking like a future star. His shot blocking and defensive rotations improved this season and he looked more comfortable shooting the ball.

His play might have made Steven Adams expendable and Hayes could be the starter as soon as next season if he has a good offseason.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker was in and out of the rotation due to inconsistent play and injuries but really looked like he was figuring it out in the second half. His injury was one of the biggest disappointments of the season, as the Pels would have had a better shot at the play-in tournament if he had been healthy.

But he averaged more than 20 points per game as a stater, improved his shot selection and stopped making as many bad mistakes. Is he is the starter next season? It’s very possible.

Naji Marshall came out of nowhere and got some minutes mostly because of injury. He made the most of them and now looks like a guy who could be the hustle/defense wing they’ve been needing.

His playmaking was also better than advertised, which was a bonus. Kira Lewis Jr. also got in on the action, though he still needs a lot more time, especially when it comes to shooting.

But he got plenty of run for a rookie point guard and showed some flashes, including the ability to protect the ball and limit turnovers.

It wasn’t the season the New Orleans Pelicans were hoping for but there was still a lot to be happy about.