The Pelicans’ preseason opener poured cold water on the continuity argument

Writer Chris Lambert argues that the New Orleans Pelicans' starting lineup struggled heavily in their 116-110 preseason victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, undermining the franchise's belief in roster continuity. Head coach Jamahl Mosley started Zion Williamson, Yves Missi, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Dejounte Murray. Lambert notes that Williamson finished as a minus-23 and the remaining starters registered at minus-20 while struggling against Thunder rookies Aday Mara and Bennett Stirtz.

Lambert contends that poor roster construction leaves Mosley with few clear lineup solutions moving forward. Potential adjustments involving Jordan Poole, Bennedict Mathurin, or Derik Queen present obvious trade-offs in defense, ball dominance, or spacing, leaving the coaching staff with difficult decisions.