New Orleans Pelicans: 3 things we’ve learned in the first 4 games

The New Orleans Pelicans have a started the season 3-1 after an impressive shorthanded win over the Dallas Mavericks.

The season is still very young, but we’ve already learned some things.

What we’ve learned about the New Orleans Pelicans so far

This team is good. Really good.

Most people recognize that the Pelicans could be a threat in the Western Conference. The trio of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum could cause problems for many teams.

However, beating Dallas without Williamson and Ingram, and without the team’s best defender Herb Jones? This isn’t just a team that can win some games in the West. This is a team that could contend for an NBA Championship.

The Mavs were expected to dominate the Pels on Tuesday night. Coming off a massive 41-point victory over the Grizzlies, it looked like New Orleans was completely outmatched.

Instead, the Pelicans put together a spectacular team performance, giving them a huge 113-111 win.

There is a different vibe in New Orleans. This team continues to impress and show the world that they have the quality depth necessary to contend.

Dyson Daniels needs a spot in the rotation

Due to the various injuries the New Orleans Pelicans had to deal with last night, Dyson Daniels finally got his first real NBA action. He did not disappoint.

Daniels was given the tough task of guarding superstar Luka Doncic, and he performed.

The rookie finished the night with three steals and a block, as he dominated on the defensive end. Offensively Daniels turned some heads as well, putting up 11 points, and two assists with a couple of nice finishes in the lane and knocking down his only 3-point attempt.

If he was on most other NBA teams, Dyson Daniels would have a much bigger role. However, he is unable to get that same treatment in New Orleans due to the team’s deep roster.

Daniels has the potential to develop into a great player for the Pels, but he needs the experience to do that. As long as he continues this level of play, giving him a larger role seems to be the wise thing to do for this team for both the short and long term. He gives them a potential defensive weapon off the bench against guys like Luka Doncic and Ja Morant.

Willie Green is a Coach of the Year candidate

Willie Green has done an incredible job in New Orleans.

Last season, we saw the Pelicans start an atrocious 1-11. The team had no identity and the future looked bleak.

Fast forward a year, and this is a completely different team. The Pelicans sit at 3-1 and play with passion, which is something this team has rarely seen before.

Willie Green changed the culture in New Orleans, and I don’t think it’s going to go unnoticed. He’s earned respect from his team, the media, and the entire NBA world.

Green made many big adjustments to seal the Pelicans win over Dallas. It was truly a coaching masterclass for the 2nd year coach.

As I said earlier, the job he’s done won’t go unnoticed and I think it’s only a matter of time before he becomes the Coach of the Year favorite.