The New Orleans Pelicans are a professional basketball team based in the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. The team is part of the Southwest Division of the Western Conference in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and plays their home games at Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans were founded in 2002 as an expansion team, replacing the Charlotte Hornets who had relocated to New Orleans the year before. Since their founding, the Pelicans have struggled to find success on the court.
They reached the playoffs for three consecutive seasons from 2015-2018 but failed to advance beyond the first round each time. After several years of mediocrity, however, they made a major leap forward in 2019 when they acquired superstar center Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers via trade. This move propelled them into contention for a playoff spot and helped pave way for further success with All-Star guard Jrue Holiday joining their roster shortly afterwards. In 2020-21 season, their fortunes improved further with Zion Williamson leading his young core alongside veteran Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball under head coach Stan Van Gundy. Williamson’s dynamic presence at power forward combined with stellar perimeter shooting from Holiday has allowed them to become one of most dangerous offensive teams in NBA today while also displaying an impressive defensive effort on nights where it matters most.
At present time, Pelicans have established themselves as one of top contenders out West and can be expected to make some noise come playoff time this season despite facing tough competition like Los Angeles Clippers or Utah Jazz along way there. With promising prospects like Zion Williamson continuing lead charge into future, there’s plenty reasons why fans should get excited about what lies ahead for franchise going forward!