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3 NBA teams primed for a second-half playoff push

By Dallin Duffy

Feb 12, 2022; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) reacts after being fouled while making a shot in the second half against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 12, 2022; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Keldon Johnson (3) reacts after being fouled while making a shot in the second half against the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports /
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NBA
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FEBRUARY 10: CJ McCollum #3 of the New Orleans Pelicans and Jose Alvarado #15 of the New Orleans Pelicans stand on the court during the third quarter of an NBA game H at Smoothie King Center on February 10, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana, 3 NBA teams primed for a second-half playoff push 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 Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

3 NBA teams primed for a second-half playoff push – New Orleans Pelicans

Don’t look now, but the New Orleans Pelicans are hot. Since a disastrous 2-14 start to the season, they’ve been just a tick under .500. They rattled off a four-game winning streak in February and then added scoring star CJ McCollum at the deadline, a sure sign that they’re still committed to winning now.

The former Portland star and Brandon Ingram create a dynamic scoring duo that can combine for 50 (or more) points every night. Jonas Valanciunas is still a dominant two-way center, and let’s not forget the elephant in the room.

Zion Williamson’s shadow looms over the franchise. While they have the talent to make a playoff push without the All-Star, his return would make that all the more likely. His injury is still a mystery, though, so don’t get too excited.

While losing Josh Hart does hurt, his departure leaves more minutes for standout rookie Herbert Jones. The forward, who’s cruising for an All-Rookie Team selection, can make a difference off the bench or in the first five.

They’re currently two games behind Portland for the 10th seed, and judging by the Trail Blazers’ moves at the deadline, that spot should be easily attainable. Don’t be surprised if New Orleans go dancing in the NBA playoffs this year.