OKC Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans, 2019-20 team preview

Zion Health:

This was a point already earmarked to insert here prior to the news Monday and there is a solid reason for that. Zion’s injury history is well documented. He is an athletic freak but the issues with his phenomenal frame which make him virtually impossible to defend also seem to offer limitations to his ability to stay on the court.

It doesn’t appear to be a conditioning issue although many are questioning his weight. Rather, he may need to streamline his frame retaining the muscle but perhaps change the muscle construction. Much like a player utilizes yoga to lengthen their muscle construction instead of lifting weights. Both could work to build muscle but yoga wouldn’t add bulk. Not being a doctor it’s important this isn’t taken as an expert opinion. But investigating those options sure seems like the logical approach the Pelicans should take.

Rotational fit, chemistry:

Every team has to integrate roster additions but the Pelicans are almost an entirely new team. Between the Lakers trio, four rookies and two free agents that’s nine new players. In total six returning players are listed on the roster.

Alvin Gentry has to instill his offense and defense all while keeping in mind the Lakers trio will have a natural chemistry as will his returning Pelicans.

Factor in Zion’s injury which will find him out of the lineup between six and eight weeks and with his history the potential to be in and out of the lineup all season until New Orleans finds a resolution. It isn’t something Gentry can’t address but in the wild West teams don’t have the option of taking a few weeks to find their chemistry.  As they say — you can’t win a title in October and November —- but you can lose one then.