The New Orleans Pelicans were blown out by the Chicago Bulls after getting down early and never getting back into the game.
If you only looked at the statistics, you’d think the Pelicans had a chance, as they shot the ball well, especially from long range, but so did the Bulls, who ran all over the Pels, scoring 27 points off 17 New Orleans’ turnovers.
It was an ugly first half for the Pelicans, who do not look comfortable in the half court offense without star Zion Williamson.
This was to be expected, so don’t panic. This team was built around Zion, so without him, the offense simply doesn’t work.
But there are some positive signs that will change when he returns. Even though the New Orleans Pelicans were blown out, there were some bright spots.
New Orleans Pelicans: The shooting has improved
We spent a good deal of the offseason wondering if the Pelicans had improved their shooting and so far the answer is yes.
The Pels shot 51 percent from long range vs. the Bulls after shooting 43 percent in the opening night loss to the 76ers.
As I said earlier, the offense is not going to function well in the half court without Zion, as his gravity is what sets off the action and opens space for shooters.
But it’s a good sign that the Pelicans are knocking down shots without their star, as those shots are going to be a lot more open when he returns.
I know fans aren’t happy about the 0-2 start, but the Pelicans hot shooting is a good sign that this team will turn it around.