The 3 biggest strengths of the New Orleans Pelicans roster

The New Orleans Pelicans will crash the glass

The Pelicans were one of the best rebounding teams in the NBA last season, ranking 3rd overall and 1st in offensive rebounding.

I think Valanciunas will play a different role than Adams did, which could draw him away from the hoop more and cost the Pels some offensive rebounds.

I do think the Pelicans will take a step back with offensive boards because of it, but with Zion Williamson grabbing so many of his own misses, they will still be fine in that department.

The Pels have improved their bench rebounding with guys like Naji Marshall and hopefully Trey Murphy III grabbing more from the wing, which should more than offset the losses they might have because of a change in style.

Rebounding is important for obvious reasons. It gives the team extra possessions on the offensive end and often leads to easy buckets.

But defensive rebounding is even more important, as it allows your defense to close out possessions and get out and run.

Considering the troubles the Pelicans have had defensively, they can’t give up extra opportunities by letting teams get offensive boards, so rebounding is a strength that will be important for them.