Many fans expected the New Orleans Pelicans to go in to rebuild mode when they traded Anthony Davis. Instead, the team has actually rebounded from losing a superstar extremely quickly. In fact, they look like they could be dark-horse playoff contenders for the upcoming season.

Pelicans vice president David Griffin claimed that he is very happy on how the team turned out, especially in terms of acquiring defensive players.

Article Continues Below
More Pelicans News
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) reacts to a play against the Utah Jazz during the second half at Delta Center.
Pelicans owner Gayle Benson breaks silence on Zion Williamson rape lawsuitBenedetto Vitale ·
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) reacts during the first half against the Detroit Pistons at Smoothie King Center.
Pelicans rumors: Zion Williamson trade offers to feature ‘bad contracts, no picks’Zachary Weinberger ·
Jordan Zion 4, Zion Williamson, Jordan Brand
Zion Williamson releases new Jordan Zion 4 ‘Iridescence’Dominik Zawartko ·
knicks, knicks trade, giannis
3 trades New York Knicks must make to win 2026 NBA FinalsGarrett Kerman ·
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) drives to the basket past Minnesota Timberwolves center Naz Reid (11) in the second half at Target Center.
Pelicans rumors: Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III no longer untouchableDavid Yapkowitz ·
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) looks on during the second quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center.
Pelicans’ Zion Williamson accused of rape in recent LA court filingBrett Siegel ·

The Pelicans have amassed a group that looks to be very solid on the defensive end. Guard Jrue Holiday has already established himself as one of the better perimeter defenders in the league. He has appeared on the NBA All-Defensive team twice already, making the second team last year.

For all of Lonzo Ball's offensive struggles, the third-year guard out of UCLA has shown he has the potential to be an elite defender. His 6-foot-6 frame and ability to see passing lanes lead to steals and fast-break opportunities.

Zion Williamson could be the most exciting to watch defensively. The big man seems to soar effortlessly to swat shots that look unreachable. He is also nimble enough to switch on to guards on the perimeter yet strong enough to hold his own in the post. If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to be the best defender on the team very quickly.

While the Pelicans might have lost a superstar, it's possible that they have a couple in the making with all the young talent the team has accrued. It could be dangerous to sleep on them this season.