The ESPN Future Power Rankings are back and the New Orleans Pelicans moved up a single spot, from 18th last May into a 3-team tie at 17th today. Interestingly, the team’s 46.3 overall score tied them with both the Denver Nuggets and the Washington Wizards. In case you’re not aware, these rankings are based on the combined projected success of all the NBA franchises over the next three seasons.
After suffering major disappointment in 2015-16 and watching a series of offseason moves that lacked both star power and proven advanced stat producers, it’s not surprising to see Kevin Pelton and Chris Ford decide to keep the Pelicans tethered to the middle of the pack.