The Athletic NBA Power Rankings: Pels still 5th

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Preseason over/under: 44.5

Projected record: 51-31

The Pelicans just need one more win to hit the over, thanks to their fantastic second-half resurgence. Brandon Ingram’s injury is concerning because this team has such a hard time staying healthy in general. As long as he’s fine before the playoffs begin, I feel great about the Pelicans’ chances of making a good run in the postseason. That probably means at least a first-round victory – or maybe even surprising some folks and getting into the conference finals. The Zion Williamson experience has everybody wondering how you cover him when he’s the initiator, and Willie Green should be getting more love for Coach of the Year.

Key Stats

Record

44-27

Offensive Rating

117.0 (10th)

Defensive Rating

111.4 (5th tied)

Net Rating

5.6

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