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NBA: 3 teams poised for a Memphis-style surge this season

By Luke Duffy

TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 13: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors defends as Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons dribbles during the second half of their NBA game at Scotiabank Arena on November 13, 2021 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Cole Burston/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 13: Scottie Barnes #4 of the Toronto Raptors defends as Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons dribbles during the second half of their NBA game at Scotiabank Arena on November 13, 2021 in Toronto, Canada. 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 Cole Burston/Getty Images) /
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NBA
Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images) /

NBA Team #1: New Orleans Pelicans

The obvious answer here is, ironically, a franchise that the Grizzlies should be nervously looking over their shoulder about. The New Orleans Pelicans would appear to have it all, in much the same way the Grizzlies did last season. They have the superstar in waiting in Zion Williamson, who is going to give the Western Conference nightmares.

Brandon Ingram was already an All-Star-level talent, and he is only showing signs of getting better, while C.J. McCollum is such an excellent guard and has yet to play with Williamson. Imagine the two-man game they could produce at certain moments. Moreover, center Jonas Valanciunas will do the dirty work necessary to help the group thrive.

Even more importantly, his presence on the court will ensure Zion doesn’t always have to play as a five and get physical with big centers every time he is on the court. Williamson will win most of those tussles, but it is about preserving him for what the Pelicans hope will be an exciting playoff run and keeping his health intact.

They also have Herb Jones, who was great last year as a lockdown defender. Meanwhile, coach Willie Green has done his reputation no harm at all in how he has adapted to life in New Orleans with this group. At this point, the Pelicans should fancy their chances of finishing above rival teams like the Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, and even the Dallas Mavericks.

Next. The Pistons are revving up for a speedy turnaround. dark

They are just better than the Los Angeles Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers. The Phoenix Suns look extremely combustible. The L.A. Clippers look great on paper, yet we’re into year four of the Kawhi Leonard/Paul George experience, and they have a Conference Finals appearance to show for it. There is nothing to fear for the Pelicans, and they are going to surprise a lot of people.