The New Orleans Pelicans may have bowed out early in the 2024–25 NBA season, but they should be paying close attention to the ongoing playoffs. Despite their 21–61 finish, the postseason is proving that the Pelicans might be a lot closer to contention than their record suggests.
The franchise has already begun a major overhaul behind the scenes. Shortly after their season ended, the Pelicans fired longtime Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin and brought in NBA veteran Joe Dumars to take his place. Dumars quickly installed Troy Weaver as his second-in-command, filling the role previously held by WNBA legend Swin Cash. Both Dumars and Weaver have deep ties to the Detroit Pistons — a connection that could shape the franchise’s culture moving forward. Other key front office figures, including Gar Forman and Mike D’Antoni, are also reportedly on their way out.
While Dumars reshapes the organization, the 2025 playoffs are offering a blueprint for the Pelicans’ next phase. This postseason has underscored a growing trend: depth and versatility now matter more than having multiple superstars. Teams like the Pacers, Thunder, and Cavaliers are thriving not because they’re stacked with household names, but because they can put five capable players on the floor at all times — with no weak links.
Just look at Indiana’s gentleman’s sweep of the Bucks. Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo being the best player in the series, the Pacers’ deep, balanced rotation made the difference. Similarly, the Timberwolves are on the verge of ousting a Lakers squad led by Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Even the top-seeded Celtics are thriving behind team cohesion and depth rather than a singular dominant force.
That brings us back to New Orleans.
The Pelicans may already have the pieces for a balanced, playoff-ready roster. If they stand pat this summer and avoid major changes, they’ll return a core that includes Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy III, Zion Williamson, Yves Missi, Herb Jones, Kelly Olynyk, Jose Alvarado, Jordan Hawkins, Brandon Boston Jr., and Elfrid Payton. They’re also poised to add a top prospect through the draft — possibly even No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg.
With that group, the Pelicans have something rare: positional flexibility, lineup options, and the potential for a rotation without glaring weaknesses. The only obvious need might be a stronger backup big man to help in the paint.
Of course, health remains the biggest question mark. But if this roster can stay intact and injury-free, New Orleans could emerge as a surprise contender — sooner than most expect.