New Orleans Pelicans 2015 NBA Season Preview

Key Offseason Losses

As I’ve said before, the Pelicans largely weren’t incredibly active in terms of free agency or even in the trade market. The only loss they incurred to their roster was that of reserve guard Jimmer Fredette, who signed with the San Antonio Spurs. Considering he was largely only used in garbage time, that’s insignificant to the Pelicans.

Their biggest loss of the offseason was actually a positive for the team as they fired Monty Williams. Regardless of if you think Williams is a good NBA head coach or not, he was clearly not the right coach for this team who seemed incapable of maximizing what he could get out of a roster loaded with talent. Taking the clipboard out of Williams’ hands is a huge move towards the future for New Orleans.

Key Offseason Additions

Just as losing Williams was a good move for the Pelicans, equally as smart for them was bringing in former Warriors assistant coach Alvin Gentry. Many people credit Gentry for much of what Golden State was able to accomplish last season, particularly as an offensive unit. Giving him the keys to a team with Anthony Davis on it and allowing him to turn up the speed and pace of the offense is a reason to get excited about what New Orleans could like in the 2015-16 season.

Again, the Pelicans weren’t particularly active in free agency, but they did make one sneaky good signing in landing small forward Alonzo Gee. While Gee may not play a huge role for this team this season, he’s a guy who will be able to play on the win off the bench to help fill out their rotation and a player who could thrive in a fast-paced style of basketball where he’s given quality shots on the perimeter.

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