New Orleans had a rough start to last season, dropping 12 of its first 13 games; the Pels had numerous injuries and chemistry issues, but bounced back in a big way after acquiring C.J. McCollum at the trade deadline. McCollum proved to be the missing piece for this squad as they marched into the playoffs and took the No. 1 seeded Phoenix Suns to six games without Zion Williamson, arguably their best player. Williamson’s return, Dyson Daniels’ arrival, and the progression of several young players for New Orleans, including Jose Alvarado, Trey Murphy III, and Herbert Jones make this team a huge threat for years to come. Get updated starting lineups for the New Orleans Pelicans.