This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.
The New Orleans Pelicans aren’t just struggling NBA birds – they’re a basketball team that’s been fighting for respectability since 2002.
You’ll find they’ve managed just 21 wins last season with a.461 all-time record across 23 seasons.
Their recent offseason moves earned them ESPN’s only failing grade, despite acquiring Jordan Poole and extending Herb Jones.
With Zion Williamson averaging 24.6 points when healthy, the pelicans face another rebuilding year.
Their defensive struggles and limited playoff success tell a story of potential waiting to take flight.
The real question isn’t whether they’ll improve, but how quickly they can transform their organizational culture.
Table Of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Pelicans Team History
- Pelicans Performance Analysis
- Pelicans Offseason News
- Pelicans Future Prospects
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What does the Bible say about pelicans?
- Why is 7 retired for the pelicans?
- What do pelicans look like?
- What is a flock of pelicans called?
- Why is the New Orleans Pelicans called Pelican?
- Where do the Pelicans play home games?
- What does a pelican look like?
- Where do Pelicans live?
- Who are the 2018-19 Pelicans?
- What is a great white pelican?
- Conclusion
Key Takeaways
- You’ll find the Pelicans struggling with a 21-61 record and a.461 all-time win percentage, reflecting ongoing defensive weaknesses that rank 26th league-wide in opponent scoring.
- Your team received ESPN’s only failing offseason grade despite acquiring Jordan Poole and extending Herb Jones, with limited roster moves failing to impress analysts.
- You can expect improvement centered around Zion Williamson’s 24.6 PPG when healthy and Trey Murphy III’s 21.2 PPG leadership, though injuries continue to hamper consistency.
- You’ll see the franchise’s 2013 rebranding from Hornets to Pelicans represents ongoing efforts to establish a unique New Orleans identity, but championship success remains elusive with just nine playoff appearances in 23 seasons.
Pelicans Team History
You’ll discover the New Orleans Pelicans transformed from the Charlotte Hornets relocation in 2002, officially becoming the Pelicans in 2013.
The franchise remains one of 10 NBA teams without a championship, currently seeking to build a contending roster after finishing 21-61 in the 2024-25 season.
Establishment in New Orleans
You’ll discover the New Orleans Pelicans established their Franchise Origins in 2013, creating powerful City Impact through strategic Team Branding.
These large waterbirds became the perfect mascot choice, connecting aquatic birds to Louisiana’s wetland heritage.
Fan Engagement soared as Local Support embraced this bird species identity, transforming how residents viewed their basketball team forever with a lasting City Impact and strong Fan Engagement.
Previous Name and Rebranding
You’ll find the team’s rebranding efforts fascinating. Originally called the New Orleans Hornets from 2002-2013, the franchise underwent a significant name change to become the New Orleans Pelicans in 2013.
From Charlotte Hornets to New Orleans Pelicans – a franchise reborn with Louisiana’s iconic waterbird as its new identity
This team rebranding represented more than just logo evolution—it marked a fresh identity for NBA fans. The franchise origins trace back to Charlotte’s relocation, but New Orleans wanted its own unique team history and identity moving forward, which is a key part of the rebranding efforts and helps to establish a fresh identity.
Franchise Performance and Statistics
The Pelicans’ franchise performance tells a story of persistent struggle since establishment.
Their all-time regular season record stands at 852–998 (.461 win percentage) across twenty-three seasons.
You’ll find their defensive metrics particularly concerning, ranking twenty-sixth league-wide in opponent scoring.
The team’s overall performance can be analyzed through their team stats to understand areas of improvement.
Key Franchise Performance Metrics:
- Win Loss Record: Just nine playoff appearances with only two series victories in franchise history
- Team Stats: Averaged 109.8 points per game (25th ranked) while allowing 119.3 (26th defensively)
- Player Rankings: Zion Williamson leads scoring at 24.6 PPG, though team statistics remain below league standards
Pelicans Performance Analysis
You’ll discover how the Pelicans’ 21-61 record reflects critical weaknesses in rebounding and assists that limited their competitive edge.
Trey Murphy III’s 21.2 points per game provided offensive consistency, but the team’s.256 win percentage reveals fundamental gaps that must be addressed for future success.
Key Player Performances and Contributions
You’ll find standout player performance defining this season’s narrative. Trey Murphy led team leaders with 21.2 points per game at 45.4% shooting efficiency. Jose Alvarado contributed 4.6 assists and 10.3 points while maintaining just 1.5 turnovers.
Player stats reveal Murphy’s scoring prowess anchored offensive production. Alvarado’s playmaking created opportunities despite limited rookie impact from draft additions.
These player achievements showcase individual excellence amid team struggles, with basketball player statistics highlighting their contributions to pelicans’ competitive efforts. The team’s overall performance was impacted by fantasy basketball injuries and player availability, affecting their competitive efforts.
Team Strengths and Weaknesses
Looking at the 2024-25 season statistics, you’ll notice the Pelicans faced significant challenges across multiple areas that directly impacted their 21-61 record.
The 2024-25 season exposed critical flaws that cost the Pelicans 61 games and revealed fundamental roster gaps
Key weaknesses revealed through basketball analytics:
- Rebound Issues – Poor rebounding fundamentals limited second-chance opportunities and allowed opponents extra possessions
- Assist Problems – Low assist totals indicate ball movement struggles, restricting offensive flow and player performance optimization
- Roster Depth – Limited team depth became apparent during injury stretches, exposing gaps in defensive strategies and overall team statistics
Pelicans Offseason News
The Pelicans made headlines during the 2025 offseason with mixed reactions from analysts and fans.
New Orleans sparked debate with controversial roster moves that divided the basketball community this summer.
ESPN’s Kevin Pelton gave New Orleans the only failing grade among all 30 NBA teams for their limited roster moves and lack of high-profile signings.
NBA Free Agency and Signings
Major roster reconstruction transformed New Orleans through strategic Free Agent Signings during NBA Free Agency.
You’ll witness how Offseason Trades reshaped the team’s foundation with key Player Contracts securing future stability. The team’s success relies on effective NBA Free Agents management.
| Player | Position | Contract Details |
|---|---|---|
| Jordan Poole | Guard | $34M annually from Washington |
| Saddiq Bey | Forward | Acquired via trade |
| Kevon Looney | Center | 2-year, $16M deal |
| Herb Jones | Wing | 3-year, $68M extension |
| Jeremiah Fears | Guard | Rookie scale contract |
These Team Signings address immediate needs while building toward an NBA championship foundation.
Trade Tracker and Rumors
Beyond free agent signings, you’ll want to track the franchise’s aggressive trading activity.
The front office executed several high-impact deals that reshaped the roster’s foundation and future trajectory.
Major Offseason Deals:
- Jordan Poole, Saddiq Bey acquired from Washington for CJ McCollum
- Traded up to draft Derik Queen at No. 13 using valuable future assets
- Kevon Looney signed to strengthen frontcourt depth
- Multiple roster moves including waiving Lester Quinones and Antonio Reeves
Trade rumors continue swirling around potential multi-team scenarios and perimeter shooter acquisitions to complement existing talent.
Fans can analyze recent Pelicans trades to better understand the team’s strategy and potential future moves.
Power Rankings and Offseason Grades
Several NBA analysts haven’t been kind to your Pelicans’ offseason strategy. ESPN’s Kevin Pelton delivered harsh criticism, awarding New Orleans the league’s only failing grade for their summer moves.
You’re witnessing a team struggling to gain respect in power rankings despite modest roster additions. The team’s performance can be influenced by various factors, including environmental changes like seasonal behavior patterns.
| Category | Grade/Rank | Key Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Offseason Moves | F (ESPN) | Limited signings |
| Power Rankings | Bottom 10 | Poor 2024-25 record |
| Draft Picks | Mixed reviews | Fears, Newell additions |
| Free Agency | Below average | Springer main pickup |
The offseason strategy and summer moves have been under scrutiny, with the Pelicans receiving an F grade from ESPN for their offseason moves. This criticism, combined with their poor 2024-25 record, contributes to their low standing in power rankings.
Pelicans Future Prospects
You’ll discover the Pelicans’ path forward as they rebuild around young talent like Trey Murphy III.
The team faces critical decisions about player development, draft picks Jeremiah Fears and Asa Newell, and whether their current trajectory can transform a 21-win season into competitive basketball.
Upcoming Season Expectations and Goals
Your team’s championship-caliber potential hinges on maximizing Roster Chemistry between emerging stars and veteran leadership.
After last season’s 21-61 record, the Pelicans must transform Player Development systems to reach Playoff Contention.
The team’s future success relies heavily on understanding Pelicans future prospects and development strategies.
- Coaching Impact: Implement defensive schemes that reduce opponent scoring by 10+ points per game
- Improved Defense: Target top-15 defensive rating through systematic rebounding and communication protocols
- Team Performance: Achieve.500+ record by optimizing Trey Murphy III’s 21.2 PPG scoring efficiency
- Team Goals: Establish consistent rotation patterns that maximize each player’s statistical contributions during the basketball season
Potential Roster Adjustments and Additions
You’ll find the Pelicans roster sits at fourteen players with one spot available.
Free Agents like experienced wings remain unsigned while the team evaluates backup rim protection needs.
Trade Options before the NBA trade deadline could address shooting and playmaking gaps.
Player Signings may target undrafted prospects or G League standouts.
The Pelicans Offseason Strategy balances asset preservation with playoff readiness through calculated Roster Moves.
The team’s approach to roster adjustments is similar to how pelicans exhibit adaptation behaviors in response to environmental changes.
Team Development and Growth Strategies
You’ll release your team’s potential through strategic player development programs that transform raw talent into championship contributors.
Effective team management requires systematic approaches to building sustainable success. Implementing a strong team development framework is essential for long-term success.
Key development strategies include:
- Youth Development – Implement structured training programs targeting skill refinement and basketball strategy comprehension for emerging players
- Coaching Staff optimization – Recruit experienced mentors who excel at fostering team chemistry and individual player development
- Team Culture enhancement – Establish accountability systems that promote Fan Engagement while strengthening internal team management practices
Player Trades complement these foundations, creating roster flexibility that supports long-term growth objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does the Bible say about pelicans?
Picture the pelican’s striking silhouette against a sunset sky—Scripture mentions this magnificent bird in Psalms.
You’ll find it in Psalm 102:6, where the author states, "I am like a pelican of the wilderness."
Leviticus 11:18 lists pelicans among unclean birds.
The Bible often associates pelicans with desolate land scenes to convey themes of loneliness and abandonment.
Why is 7 retired for the pelicans?
Number 7 isn’t retired for you anymore.
It was previously retired for "Pistol" Pete Maravich, honoring his contributions to New Orleans basketball when he played for the Jazz.
However, when the Hornets history transferred back to Charlotte in 2014, the number returned to circulation for your franchise.
The Pelicans still recognize the New Orleans legacy of Pete Maravich as a significant part of their history.
What do pelicans look like?
Like nature’s flying dinosaurs reborn, you’ll spot pelicans by their massive wingspan, distinctive pouched beaks, and webbed feet.
These large waterbirds display white or brown-gray plumage, long necks, and streamlined bodies built for diving underwater to catch fish.
What is a flock of pelicans called?
A group of pelicans is called a "pod" when they’re swimming together, or a "squadron" when they’re flying in formation. You’ll also hear ornithologists use "brief" for flying pelicans.
Why is the New Orleans Pelicans called Pelican?
Like a bird taking flight, you’ll discover the New Orleans Pelicans chose their name to honor Louisiana’s state bird.
The brown pelican symbolizes the region’s coastal wildlife and cultural identity, connecting the team to local heritage.
The brown pelican is a significant symbol in this context.
Where do the Pelicans play home games?
You’ll find the New Orleans Pelicans playing their home games at the Smoothie King Center in downtown New Orleans.
This arena seats approximately 16,867 fans and has hosted the team since 2002, serving as their home court fortress.
What does a pelican look like?
You’ll recognize a pelican by its massive throat pouch, long straight bill, and webbed feet.
These large waterbirds have distinctive wingspans reaching eight feet, with white or brown plumage depending on species.
Where do Pelicans live?
Over eight species of pelicans inhabit diverse aquatic environments worldwide.
You’ll spot them along coastlines, estuaries, inland lakes, and rivers across six continents except Antarctica, adapting to both saltwater and freshwater habitats efficiently.
Who are the 2018-19 Pelicans?
You’ll examine the 2018-19 New Orleans Pelicans basketball team roster.
Julius Randle netted a team-best 1,565 points for the Pelicans, and Jrue Holiday scored 21 or more per game, too.
Anthony Davis contributed 672 rebounds. That season featured the end of the Anthony Davis era in New Orleans, as he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on July 6, 2019, marking a significant change in the team’s roster, particularly with the loss of such a key player, an era.
What is a great white pelican?
You’ll discover great white pelicans are massive waterbirds with nine-foot wingspans.
They’re cooperative hunters, forming lines to herd fish into shallow waters.
These social giants migrate seasonally and nest in large colonies across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Conclusion
Surprisingly, you’ll witness the Pelicans’ transformation from NBA laughingstock to legitimate contender faster than expected.
The team’s defensive metrics show measurable improvement with Herb Jones anchoring perimeter coverage at 94.2 defensive rating.
You can track Zion Williamson’s health data revealing 82% game availability projections for 2025.
Jordan Poole’s offensive efficiency adds 15.3 points per game to their scoring arsenal.
The Pelicans’ systematic approach targets playoff positioning through advanced analytics and roster depth optimization.
- https://www.ldsliving.com/pelican-of-the-wilderness-and-owl-of-the-desert-here-are-32-birds-mentioned-in-the-bible/s/11028
- https://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Pelicans
- https://pelicandebrief.com/2014/08/17/new-orleans-pelicans-numbers-number-7/
- https://www.statscrew.com/basketball/roster/t-NOP/y-2018
