There were two mandates for New Orleans when the season began: Stay under the luxury tax and make the playoffs.
Through the end of January, the Pelicans are on course for both -- but barely. New Orleans and its two All-Stars are 26-21 (6th in the West) and $623,000 under the tax.
Can the Pelicans improve at the deadline or will they have to rely on the current roster to earn a postseason berth? Is DeMarcus Cousins untouchable?