2. Losing Rondo will definitely hurt
In New Orleans’ first round upset over the Portland Trail Blazers, Rajon Rondo was phenomenal, averaging 11.3 points, 13.3 assists and 7.5 rebounds per contest in the four-game sweep.
He was instrumental in facilitating the basketball to the likes of Anthony Davis and Nikola Mirotic, and his defense was key in shutting down the backcourt duo of Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum.
Rondo’s presence also allowed Jrue Holiday to play off the ball at the 2-guard spot where he would have his best season after putting up 19.0 points and 6.0 assists per game.
With Rondo now a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, the Pelicans no longer have that primary ball-handler, unless they’re willing to move Holiday back to that role, which doesn’t seem wise given his play at shooting guard.
A former NBA champion and multiple time All-Star, Rondo’s experience and IQ were second to none, and they were a large part in New Orlean’s success in 2018.
With him gone and Payton attempting to take his place, the Pelicans will have to find a way to replace the production of a one-of-a-kind talent.