Pelicans' Interior Defense: A Season-Long Struggle

The New Orleans Pelicans are facing a critical deficiency in interior defense, a problem that has persisted for several seasons. This year, the team ranks 24th in the league for opponents' points in the paint, allowing 52.7 points in the restricted area, a slight regression from the previous season. This defensive struggle is compounded by poor rebounding, allowing opponents to secure 31.3% of their missed shots as offensive rebounds.

Rookie center Derik Queen's offensive strengths are overshadowed by his defensive shortcomings. When Queen and Zion Williamson share the court, the Pelicans' net rating drops to -12. In contrast, when Queen is sidelined, the team's net rating improves to a positive 0.4. This performance disparity led interim coach James Borrego to bench Queen in favor of veteran DeAndre Jordan.

DeAndre Jordan's limited but impactful appearances showcased the value of a defensive-minded big man. Opponents shoot 58.2% in the paint with Jordan on the floor, compared to nearly 67% when he is off. Coach Borrego noted Jordan's "massive" defensive impact, emphasizing the need for physicality and rim protection. Second-year center Yves Missi was also expected to provide defensive presence, but his development has been hampered by a crowded frontcourt, and trade rumors circulated before the deadline.

Zion Williamson, in his seventh season, also faces scrutiny for his defensive accountability. Despite his athleticism, he is often out of position. The pairing of Queen and Williamson presents significant defensive liabilities late in games. With no first-round pick in the upcoming draft due to a previous trade, improving interior defense will likely require moves in free agency or through trades, a crucial step for the Pelicans' future success.