Ranking the Pelicans potential playoff threats
By Matt Alquiza
5. Minnesota Timberwolves
Minnesota has the antidote for the Pelicans.
Zion Williamson is the lead initiator for the Pelicans offense, even though he doesn't play point guard. His nose for the rim and bully ball mentality opens up the offense for everyone on the Pelicans squad. Zion's rim runs draw defensive help and create open looks for CJ McCollum, Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III. Rudy Gobert may have other plans.
The Frenchman is an elite NBA defense unto himself. With his Mr. Fantastic wingspan patrolling the paint, Minnesota helps less and limits three point looks. The Timberwolves have the third ranked three point shooting defense in the league, and that starts on the interior, not the perimeter.
Couple that elite defense with Anthony Edwards' star turn and Minnesota becomes a tough out come playoff time. If this potential matchup comes to fruition, the one-on-one matchups between Edwards and Jones would be must-see TV for NBA fans across the country.