Kevin Pelton and Andrew Lopez join Zach Lowe to discuss intriguing players for the upcoming NBA season, potential trades involving Damian Lillard, resting policy, injuries plaguing the New Orleans Pelicans, and the expectations for the San Antonio Spurs
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Quick takeaways
The Pelicans' aspirations for the upcoming season are hindered by injuries to Trey Murphy and Hose Alvarado, impacting the team's shooting, athleticism, and defense.
The Pelicans have struggled with injuries and limited game time for their core players, hindering their chemistry and potential as a team.
The Pelicans face pressure to compete in a competitive Western Conference, with injuries to Murphy and Alvarado making the challenge even greater.
Despite setbacks, the Pelicans remain resilient and determined to succeed, adapting and making necessary adjustments to remain competitive.
Deep dives
The Pelicans face setbacks with Trey Murphy's injury and Hose Alvarado's ankle sprain
The Pelicans' aspirations for the upcoming season have hit a roadblock due to the injuries of Trey Murphy and Hose Alvarado. Murphy is expected to be out for around 9 to 11 weeks with a meniscus tear, depriving the team of his shooting, athleticism, and defensive contributions. Alvarado has sprained his ankle and may miss some preseason action, but should be ready for the regular season. These setbacks come at a crucial time for the Pelicans, who are aiming to have their core players, including Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, healthy and play significant minutes together.
The Pelicans' history of injuries and limited game time for their core players
The Pelicans have been plagued by injuries and limited game time for their core players, including Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and now Trey Murphy. Over the past few seasons, they have struggled to have their key contributors on the court together for extended periods of time, which has hindered their ability to develop chemistry and reach their full potential as a team. The hope was that this season would be different, but with Murphy's injury, the challenge of keeping their core healthy and available continues.
The Pelicans' urgency to win and make progress in a loaded Western Conference
The Pelicans are facing pressure to make progress and compete in a highly competitive Western Conference. With a roster that includes talented players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, there is a sense of urgency to win and establish themselves as a playoff contender. The setbacks of injuries to Trey Murphy and Hose Alvarado make the challenge even more difficult, as the team will have to find ways to compensate for their absence and adapt their game plan accordingly. The upcoming season will be a critical one for the Pelicans as they strive to make strides and prove themselves in a tough conference.
Pelicans' resilience and determination to overcome setbacks and achieve their goals
Despite the setbacks of injuries to key players, the Pelicans have shown resilience and determination in their pursuit of success. They understand the challenges they face but remain committed to overcoming them and achieving their goals. With a talented roster and a desire to compete in the Western Conference, the Pelicans will continue to adapt and make the necessary adjustments to remain competitive. The return of Hose Alvarado and the eventual return of Trey Murphy will provide a boost to the team, and they will look to capitalize on the opportunities presented to them throughout the season.
The Spurs' Promising Young Team
The San Antonio Spurs have a young and talented team with players like Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson. They are loaded with trade assets and have flexible cap space. The team's focus will be on developing their young talent, including rookie Josh Primo, and figuring out how all the pieces fit together. They have good depth and the potential to surprise people, especially with their defensive ability. The Spurs will be an intriguing team to watch this season.
The Potential Impact of Victor Wembanyama
Victor Wembanyama is a highly touted prospect who brings elite defensive skills to the San Antonio Spurs. He is a shot-blocker and rim protector, which will greatly improve the team's defense. Wembanyama's offensive game is still developing, but he has the potential to grow into a key contributor. The Spurs will need to figure out how to best use him alongside their other young core players. While he may not be a high scorer from the start, his defensive presence will have a significant impact on the team.
Devin Vassell's Underrated Growth and Potential
Devin Vassell has shown steady growth and improvement in his game. He has gone from running 7 pick-and-rolls per 100 possessions in his rookie season to 22 pick-and-rolls per 100 possessions in his second year. His shooting numbers are also on the rise, and he has become an efficient scorer. Vassell's ability to shoot and his defensive contributions make him a valuable player for the Spurs. If he continues to develop and improve his shooting, he could become the team's leading scorer. Vassell's growth and potential should not be overlooked.
Zach and ESPN's Kevin Pelton pick their most intriguing players for the upcoming NBA season, talk Dame trades, rest rules, and more. Then ESPN's Andrew Lopez joins to preview the Pelicans and Spurs.
2:10- Josh Giddey.
12:25- Giddey's FIBA play
14:00- Kristaps Porzingis' fit in Boston
20:25- Who are the favorites in the East?
21:10- Miami Heat discussion
23:00- Lamelo Ball talk
25:30 What went wrong with Lamelo last year
27:00- Kai Jones' social media brigade
33:15- Trae Young's season outlook
35:00- Tyrese Maxey's season outlook
38:00- Deandre Ayton's importance to Phoenix's sucess
40:50- Damian Lillard updates
44:00- Dame to Toronto?
49:30- Resting Policy.
51:00- Andrew Lopez joins
54:50- Injuries plaguing New Orleans
1:00:00- Latest on Zion
1:07:45- How many games will Zion play
1:11:15- Pelicans pick equity
1:19:15- Why the Pelicans aren't in the Dame sweepstakes
