With the conclusion of the Anthony Davis trade saga and the 2019 NBA Draft, the New Orleans Pelicans' future appears to be set. And as the roster rounds into form, so too is head coach Alvin Gentry's preferred style of play.
Gentry said that he would be “disappointed” if his team does not lead the league in pace next season.
Alvin Gentry said he’ll be “disappointed” if the Pelicans don’t lead the league in pace next season.
So, take that into account when drawing up your free agency scenarios.
— Scott Kushner (@ScottDKushner) June 26, 2019
New Orleans actually ranked second in pace last season – a somewhat surprising stat given that players like Julius Randle, Jahlil Okafor and Jrue Holiday would seem to be more effective in the half court. But this year, they may have the kind of personnel more suited to an up-tempo offense.
Lonzo Ball is at his best when he pushes the ball in transition and becomes a playmaker in the open floor. Recent draft picks Zion Williamson and Jaxson Hayes seem suited for pace as well.
Williamson dominated in both the half court and in transition at Duke, but he was truly unstoppable on the break. Meanwhile, Hayes' upside is mostly based on his tremendous athleticism, which appears amenable to running the floor.
With that said, this also begs the question of who the Pelicans will look to sign in free agency, particularly if they are willing to let Randle walk. Al Horford had been linked to New Orleans, but he is someone who has traditionally excelled in the half court.
The Pelicans will be armed with some cap room, but they might look for players that will more adequately fit into this “pace and space” build.
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