Even though two key ex-teammates will now be playing their home games in California, New Orleans Pelicans superstar Anthony Davis is unconcerned about his team's future.
DeMarcus Cousins has officially joined the championship favorite Golden State Warriors, and Rajon Rondo is now paired with LeBron James on the Los Angeles Lakers, but the Brow is confident that the Pelicans' offseason additions will allow them to exceed expectations next season, per Angel Diaz of Complex.
“We're fine. I love our team, I love what we're doing and the direction we're headed. We got a lot of guys that could shoot the basketball and make plays for others. The more shooters and other guys that become available, we'll try to add them to what we have as well.”
It seems like Davis is comfortable with the roster, but acknowledges some roster additions would be helpful. Perhaps Rodney Hood, who recently ran into a roadblock negotiating his contract with the Cavaliers, or the still unsigned Jamal Crawford could provide the shooting Davis references?
The Pelicans will certainly miss Cousins' intimidating presence in the paint and on the block, but they become much quicker and more mobile with the two-year, $18 million signing of former Laker Julius Randle.
Randle enjoyed a breakout season last year with the Lakers, looking much more comfortable pushing the ball, making faster decisions, and using his physicality to get buckets in the paint. If he and recently acquired Elfrid Payton can develop a connection, they could become a nice one-two punch that could keep defenses from focusing entirely on Davis.
The Pelicans surprised everyone in the playoffs, sweeping the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round. Davis and company will look to continue to play the role of spoiler and compete in a loaded Western Conference.
Follow Us
Subscribe