The New Orleans Pelicans, an NBA team that has steadily improved over the past few seasons, has become a squad to watch in the Western Conference. Boasting a blend of young talent, emerging superstars, and seasoned veterans, the Pelicans are positioning themselves for a competitive run in the coming years. With players like Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum leading the way, the future of the Pelicans looks bright.
In this comprehensive article, we will take a deep dive into the current New Orleans Pelicans roster, analyzing the key players, their performances, and the team’s potential. We’ll look at what makes the Pelicans unique, where they need to improve, and how they stack up in the NBA’s Western Conference. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the team or a casual NBA follower, this article will provide you with an in-depth understanding of the Pelicans’ roster and what makes them a formidable team on the rise.
The New Orleans Pelicans: Team Overview
The New Orleans Pelicans, based in New Orleans, Louisiana, are a professional basketball team in the NBA’s Western Conference. Originally founded as the New Orleans Hornets in 2002 after the franchise relocated from Charlotte, the team was renamed the Pelicans in 2013. Despite facing ups and downs over the years, the Pelicans have been on a trajectory toward improvement, thanks in large part to a solid mix of veteran leadership and burgeoning young stars.
The Pelicans’ most notable moment came in 2019 when they won the No. 1 pick in the NBA Draft Lottery, securing Zion Williamson, one of the most hyped prospects in NBA history. Since then, the team has focused on building around Williamson while surrounding him with complementary talent to foster growth and competitiveness. In recent seasons, the team has made significant strides, showing flashes of potential and making the playoffs.
Zion Williamson: The Franchise Cornerstone
When Zion Williamson was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans with the No. 1 overall pick in 2019, he immediately became the face of the franchise. Standing at 6’6” and weighing 284 pounds, Williamson is one of the most physically dominant players in the NBA. His combination of size, strength, and athleticism allows him to overpower defenders while also showcasing impressive agility and finesse for his size.
However, injuries have plagued Zion’s career since he entered the NBA. Despite his immense talent, he has missed significant time due to injuries, which has left fans and analysts questioning what could have been if he had stayed healthy. As of the 2024-2025 season, Zion has been able to maintain a relatively healthy status, with the team cautiously monitoring his minutes and conditioning.
When on the court, Williamson is an unstoppable force. His scoring ability in the paint is unmatched, and he has become one of the most efficient players in the league. Zion is capable of putting up monster numbers on any given night, and his ability to score both in transition and half-court situations makes him a key figure for the Pelicans moving forward.
Defensively, Zion has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly as a shot-blocker and rebounder. He can guard multiple positions, and his presence in the paint makes it difficult for opposing players to score near the rim. As his conditioning and health continue to improve, Zion has the potential to be one of the most dominant players in the NBA.
Brandon Ingram: The Smooth Scorer
Brandon Ingram has established himself as one of the most skilled wing players in the NBA. Standing at 6’9” with an impressive wingspan, Ingram combines a silky smooth shooting stroke with an ability to drive to the basket and create his own shot. He was acquired by the Pelicans in the trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019, and he has since blossomed into a primary scoring option for the team.
Ingram’s versatility is one of his greatest assets. He can score in a variety of ways, whether it’s from beyond the arc, mid-range, or attacking the rim. Ingram’s high basketball IQ and ability to create space for himself allow him to be effective in isolation situations, making him a difficult matchup for defenders.
Ingram also plays a crucial role in the Pelicans’ offensive schemes, often being called upon to provide scoring when the team needs a bucket. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and contribute as a playmaker makes him an essential part of the Pelicans’ core. While Ingram is primarily known for his offensive abilities, he has also worked hard on his defense in recent years. His length and agility allow him to guard multiple positions on the floor, and he has shown a willingness to improve on that end of the court.
CJ McCollum: The Veteran Presence
CJ McCollum, acquired in a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2021-2022 season, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the New Orleans Pelicans. A skilled scorer and shooter, McCollum is known for his ability to create offense, whether it’s through ball-handling, shooting, or playmaking. His scoring ability is often a stabilizing factor for the team, particularly in clutch moments.
Standing at 6’3”, McCollum has the ability to play both guard positions, offering versatility to the Pelicans’ backcourt. His smooth shooting stroke, particularly from beyond the arc, has made him an integral part of the team’s offensive attack. McCollum’s leadership and maturity have been crucial for a team with a roster that leans heavily on young players.
In addition to his scoring, McCollum is also a solid playmaker, capable of running the offense and facilitating for teammates. His ability to take pressure off of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram in terms of ball handling and shot creation makes him an invaluable asset to the Pelicans.
Role Players and Key Contributors
While the Pelicans’ success depends largely on the trio of Williamson, Ingram, and McCollum, several other players contribute significantly to the team’s success. Let’s take a look at some of the key role players who are making an impact for the Pelicans.
Herbert Jones: Defensive Specialist and Glue Guy
Herbert Jones has quickly become one of the best young defenders in the NBA. A second-round pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Jones has exceeded expectations and earned a starting role for the Pelicans. Known for his tenacity on defense, Jones is a versatile defender capable of guarding multiple positions, from point guards to power forwards. His ability to lock down opponents, disrupt passing lanes, and contest shots has made him a key asset for the Pelicans.
Offensively, Jones is a work in progress. While he isn’t known for scoring, he has developed into a reliable three-point shooter and is capable of contributing to the Pelicans’ spacing. His primary value to the team, however, lies in his defensive prowess and ability to guard opposing team leaders.
Jonas Valančiūnas: The Rebounding Machine
Jonas Valančiūnas, the Lithuanian big man, is a crucial piece of the Pelicans’ frontcourt. Standing at 6’11” and weighing 265 pounds, Valančiūnas is a physical presence in the paint. He is one of the best rebounders in the NBA and provides the team with much-needed interior presence on both ends of the floor.
Valančiūnas is also a capable scorer, particularly in the low post, where he can use his size and skill to dominate smaller defenders. His ability to space the floor with his shooting also provides the Pelicans with flexibility, allowing them to run different offensive sets. While Valančiūnas is not known for his athleticism or shot-blocking ability, his rebounding and strength are invaluable assets that contribute to the team’s success. His leadership and experience in the frontcourt make him an important part of the Pelicans’ roster.
Trey Murphy III: A Rising Sharpshooter
Trey Murphy III, a second-year player, has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents on the Pelicans roster. Standing at 6’9”, Murphy is a three-point shooting specialist with the ability to stretch the floor and create space for his teammates. His quick release and accuracy from beyond the arc make him an important weapon for the Pelicans, particularly in their efforts to space the floor for Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
Murphy’s offensive game is growing, and as he continues to develop his overall game, he has the potential to be a key contributor to the Pelicans’ future success. His size and length also make him an effective defender, and as he gains more experience, he could become an even more well-rounded player.
The Pelicans’ Strengths and Weaknesses
Young and Talented Core: The Pelicans boast one of the most promising young cores in the NBA. With Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and a solid supporting cast, the team has a strong foundation for future success.
Dynamic Offense: The Pelicans have a potent offense, particularly when Zion Williamson is healthy. With a combination of scoring, playmaking, and three-point shooting, the team is capable of putting up big numbers on offense.
Defensive Potential: Players like Herbert Jones, Zion Williamson, and Jonas Valančiūnas provide the Pelicans with strong defensive potential. As the team continues to grow defensively, they could become one of the most balanced teams in the league.
Injury Concerns: Zion Williamson’s health has been a major concern for the Pelicans. If the team cannot keep their star player healthy, their chances of competing at a high level could be limited.
Inconsistent Play from Role Players: While players like Trey Murphy III and Herbert Jones show promise, the Pelicans need consistent contributions from their role players to complement their stars. Depth will be key in their long-term success.
Lack of Championship Experience: Despite their talent, the Pelicans lack significant championship experience. In high-pressure moments, the team will need veterans like CJ McCollum to step up and provide leadership.
The Future of the New Orleans Pelicans
The New Orleans Pelicans are a team on the rise. With a talented core of young stars led by Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and CJ McCollum, the future looks bright for the franchise. While there are challenges to overcome, particularly in terms of consistency and health, the team has the pieces in place to compete in the Western Conference for years to come.
As the Pelicans continue to develop their young talent, improve their depth, and stay healthy, they have the potential to be a serious contender in the NBA. Whether they can take the next step into championship contention remains to be seen, but the foundation is undoubtedly in place for a successful future.The New Orleans Pelicans are a team to watch, and with their talented roster, they could soon be making waves in the NBA.
FAQs
What position does Zion Williamson play?
Zion Williamson plays as a forward. Known for his explosive athleticism and versatility, he primarily plays as a power forward but is also used in various other positions depending on matchups. His ability to score near the basket and his rebounding presence makes him an essential piece for the Pelicans.
Has Zion Williamson stayed healthy in 2025?
As of 2025, Zion Williamson’s health remains a major focus for the Pelicans. After struggling with injuries in previous seasons, he has shown a more consistent presence on the court in 2025. While there is still caution around his durability, his performance has been solid, and he’s playing a key role in the team’s success this season.
Who is the Pelicans head coach in 2025?
The head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans in 2025 is Willie Green. Green, who took over in 2021, has been praised for his leadership, ability to develop young talent, and fostering a positive team culture. Under his guidance, the Pelicans have seen significant growth, especially with young stars like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
How is Brandon Ingram performing in 2025?
Brandon Ingram is one of the top performers for the Pelicans in 2025. Known for his scoring ability, especially from mid-range, Ingram has been a key contributor. He has also improved as a playmaker, helping to take the load off Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum. His scoring and leadership are crucial to the team’s overall success.
Is CJ McCollum still on the Pelicans in 2025?
Yes, CJ McCollum is still part of the New Orleans Pelicans roster in 2025. He plays as a shooting guard and has been a steady presence in the backcourt. Known for his three-point shooting and ability to create his own shot, McCollum provides veteran leadership to the younger players and is a key part of the Pelicans’ offensive scheme.
In Summary
The New Orleans Pelicans have built a promising roster for the 2025 NBA season, blending young talent with experienced veterans. With Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram leading the charge, alongside key contributors like CJ McCollum, Herbert Jones, and Trey Murphy III, the team has the potential to be a serious playoff contender.
While injuries and consistency remain areas of concern, the Pelicans’ athleticism, versatility, and improving defense make them an exciting team to watch. With Willie Green’s coaching and continued player development, the future looks bright for the franchise.
For the latest updates on the Pelicans roster, game schedules, and playoff chances, stay tuned to NBA news outlets, official team channels, and sports media platforms. Fans can look forward to an exciting season as the Pelicans aim to make their mark in the Western Conference.
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