Zion Williamson is a stud. It is officially official. He’s already the Pelicans’ top man on most nights, and his production is starting to translate to wins. Zion has met few players who can successfully contain his strength and explosiveness combo. Only Giannis has visibly flustered him.
The Pelicans have a really solid roster. It’s not perfect, but Zion and Brandon Ingram are stars, Jrue Holiday continues to deserve credit, and Lonzo Ball has found his groove as a lead playmaker. Not to mention J.J. Redick and Derrick Favors in supporting roles. Zion could steal the eighth spot from Morant.
The Nets have played well in the absence of Kyrie Irving this season. The roster is similar to last year, and we have seen Spencer Dinwiddie have success as the No. 1 option before. This is still a deep and talented roster, at least on the perimeter. The frontcourt — namely the four spot — is a different thing entirely.
Jeremy Lamb‘s injury is a serious blow to Indiana’s depth. Victor Oladipo hasn’t found his rhythm yet, but one can only expect improvement has the season progresses and the playoffs near. Malcolm Brogdon is also in a funk, which he’s bound to improve upon as well. The Pacers still have enough talent to offer a competitive series as the fifth or sixth seed.