An opposing NBA executive believes that the New Orleans Pelicans can make the playoffs in the upcoming season.

Per Keith P. Smith of Real GM, an unnamed NBA executive shared his thoughts on the new-look Pelicans, noting that they got a pretty good haul after trading away Anthony Davis. For him, the Pelicans have lots of time to develop into a contender. But for next season, he believes that the Alvin Gentry-coached squad will qualify for the playoffs.

“I’m jealous. Don’t attach my name to this ok? (laughs) Holy crap did they get a haul for (Anthony) Davis. And they got Zion. Then to land (J.J.) Redick and (Derrick) Favors too? That’s some summer! I don’t envy Alvin Gentry, because now he’s got to put it all together. But I don’t know if anyone believes they are a title contender, so they’ve got time to figure all of that out. But on our big board, we’ve got them right around the playoffs, which is remarkable given they traded away their franchise player.”

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To recall, the Pelicans sent Davis to the Lakers in exchange for several draft picks along with Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Josh Hart. The Ball and Ingram are expected to turn into superstars once they fully develop. Not to mention Zion Williamson, one of the most-hyped college stars in NBA history.

Analysts are now tagging the Pelicans as the team with the greatest potential in the entire league. Time will only tell if their forecasts turn out to be true. Without a doubt, losing Davis was a big blow to their organization. But from the looks of it, they have clearly moved on and will soon recover from the loss.