The New Orleans Pelicans entered the 2025-26 season with moderate hope. With Zion Williamson healthy, a young core emerging and a high-expectation draft class on the way, the franchise glowed with potential. That potential now feels fragile. After six straight losses (0-6) and a messy roster construction, the Pelicans may have a problem much deeper than bad luck. Roster design should first solve the biggest holes; in New Orleans, the holes keep getting ignored. Zion Williamson remains the focal point, but the supporting cast is riddled with mismatches. The acquisition of Jordan Poole brings over 20 points a night when hot, but he’s inconsistent (18.3 PPG), and his relationship with head coach Willie Green could grow tense coming off the bench. Then there’s that trade mistake: New Orleans surrendered an unprotected 2026 first-round pick to move up and select Derik Queen (No. 13 overall) from Atlanta. Queen’s early pro numbers (7.3 points and 4.8 rebounds per game) reflect promise, but nothing close to enough
