New Orleans enters 2025-26 with Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III and Herbert Jones healthy and ready to anchor a potent Pelicans core. The addition of Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey adds burst and shooting, while Kevon Looney brings in-the-paint defense and rebounding. Draft picks Yves Missi and Derik Queen offer upside, and Jose Alvarado provides energy off the bench. If the health trend holds, New Orleans can again contend for a playoff spot in a deep West.

But health remains the variable. An Opening Night absence for Dejounte Murray and a tough early schedule could delay chemistry-building and push the team into a rugged early patch. If the roster stays cohesive and Poole/Bey translate into efficient offense, the Pelicans could reclaim momentum in November and push for a late-season run, despite the absence of a 2026 first-round pick complicating long-term assets.

The New Orleans Pelicans have secured forward Herb Jones with a lucrative three-year, $68 million extension, extending his total contract to five years for $97 million. A standout defender, Jones made the All-Defensive first team for the 2023-24 season and is among the elite players with over 350 steals and 150 blocks since entering the league. His defensive acumen is highlighted by his top-10 ranking against isolations for two consecutive seasons. Offensively, he has also excelled, boasting a career-high 42% shooting from beyond the arc last season, despite grappling with shoulder injuries that limited him to just 20 games. This extension solidifies Jones as a pivotal figure for the Pelicans moving forward.

The New Orleans Pelicans are navigating a pivotal offseason under the new leadership of GM Joe Dumars, who has previously stated that no player is strictly off-limits for trade considerations. However, recent reports indicate that Herb Jones, a standout defensive wing, is expected to remain with the team. His value is underscored by his impressive contract and past accolades, including a first-team All-Defensive selection and high defensive player of the year voting.

Despite missing a significant portion of last season, Jones still made an impact in his 20 appearances, averaging 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, and nearly 2 steals per game. The Pelicans could leverage his affordable deal as they seek to build a competitive roster surrounding their star players.

The Golden State Warriors' offseason has been characterized by minimal activity, despite their efforts to enhance their roster around stars Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. They drafted Alex Toohey and Will Richard, but faced the setback of losing veteran center Kevon Looney to the New Orleans Pelicans. The Warriors are reportedly interested in signing Al Horford but might find competition tough. Additionally, they could target Pelicans forward Herbert Jones, a promising 3-and-D player, although his injury history and the Pelicans' reluctance to trade him pose challenges.