New Orleans Pelicans: 5 players who need to step up with DeMarcus Cousins injured

5. Rajon Rondo

While this is not the Rajon Rondo of the 2010 Boston Celtics, its as close as we’ve seen in recent years. The beautiful thing about Rondo in NOLA is that he has some nice pieces that he can pass to. Although Alvin Gentry doesn’t get the shooting ability of Steve Nash with Rondo, he still provides the ball movement he coached in Phoenix. In essence, Rondo fits in well with the New Orleans Pelicans’ game plan.

Even if he can’t provide the stats “Boogie” was filling, there are other ways Rondo can step up. Creating better ball movement, more penetration and drives to the basket, and most of all utilizing his experience in a leadership role. Veterans like Rondo must keep that locker room afloat and have them believe they can compete.

Overall, New Orleans knows what it’s getting with Rondo: a guy with amazing court vision, who on any given night can go out and get a triple-double if needed. However, the biggest part of Rondo’s game will be his defensive ability. So far, this season has proven to be Rondo’s lowest steals average of his career. Earlier in his career, Rondo thrived on clogging the passing lanes and picking opposing players’ pockets.

With more defensive pressure, the Pelicans offense could be that much more dangerous with Rondo stealing the ball and pushing the pace on fast break opportunities. If this is the case, point guards in the West will have to be aware and more careful if their team is matched up against New Orleans in the playoffs.