How will they fare? The Phoenix Suns vs the Southwest Division

5 of 7

NEW ORLEANS, LA – NOVEMBER 10: Jrue Holiday #11 of the New Orleans Pelicans shoots the ball during the first half against the Phoenix Suns at the Smoothie King Center on November 10, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images) /

Southwest Division

New Orleans Pelicans

Here is another team that has had a ton of turnover this offseason, especially at their core.

Of course they added Zion Williamson with the first overall pick, but then acquired Jaxson Hayes as well as Nickeil Alexander-Walker with draft day trades.

Add to them the Anthony Davis haul which included Lonzo Ball (my personal favorite), Josh Hart, and Brandon Ingram, they also added veterans Derrick Favors from Utah and J.J. Redick in free agency.

That said, they lost a superstar in Davis, but the gained of Zion.

They lost Julius Randle, but gained both Derrick Favors and Brandon Ingram.

They still have Jrue Holiday, but then added Lonzo Ball.

The Pelicans were one of three 33-49 teams in the Southwest Division last season and at the end of the season tanked maybe harder than any team has ever tanked before (remember the timeout that they didn’t have against the Suns?)

Phoenix and New Orleans split their four games last year, Phoenix’s first victory snapping an eight-game Pelicans winning streak against the Suns dating back to 2016.

Both teams are arguably better this year than last, but neither is significantly better than the other.

Therefore, I expect more of the same in 2019-20.

If they only meet three times, then I give the 2-1 series nod to the Suns, although it’s not a very strong nod.

Prediction: 2-2.

Home/Suns News