Exit Survey: 3 offseason goals for the electrifying New Orleans Pelicans

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – APRIL 24: Brandon Ingram #14 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts against the Phoenix Suns during Game Four of the Western Conference First Round NBA Playoffs at the Smoothie King Center on April 24, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 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 Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

3 goals for the New Orleans Pelicans this offseason: 3. Build on the good vibes

It seems simple, but so many teams fail to build on the positivity they create by having modest success and getting the fanbase on their side. New Orleans is hardly a hotbed of basketball, so they need to capitalize on this moment in order to grow their brand, but also actually build on the success on the court.

In the last few years, we have seen two different organizations fail to do this, but for different reasons. The Orlando Magic are also a small market franchise, and after back-to-back postseason appearances, you would think the fans and front office would be happy. The fans enjoyed the moment, but it was clear the group had peaked.

So, just as they were somewhat competitive, they chucked it all in to start over on another rebuild. Their new core already looks better with Franz Wagner on the roster, but it does mean another few years of more losing. What do they have to show for it? Two playoff appearances, a single win each go around, and now back to mediocrity again. That’s a hard sell.

The Brooklyn Nets went the other way. They hit that sweet spot that the Pelicans did this year of overachieving. A group led by D’Angelo Russell (an All-Star that year) had some fun on their way to a brief playoff appearance. We know they rightly made changes to bring in Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving (and this guy), but increased expectations came with that. So far, it has not worked out.

The Pelicans need to handle this next part carefully. They won’t be making any sweeping changes like the Nets or hitting reset like the Magic, but expectations are going to rise, and this could be a problem when you consider both teams in Los Angeles the Denver Nuggets are going to be stronger next year. Another playoff appearance may just be a must for their fans, and they’re not guaranteed that. Trading on these good vibes as they build is crucial.