Pelicans optimistic despite lottery slide, future picks

Although the New Orleans Pelicans experienced a setback by falling from the No. 4 to the No. 7 spot in the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery, there’s still a sense of cautious optimism surrounding the franchise.

According to The Athletic’s Will Guillory, the team’s outlook remains promising due to a combination of young talent and future draft assets that could prove valuable shortly.

Despite the lottery slide, the Pelicans continue to build around a solid core that includes former All-Star Zion Williamson, sharpshooter Trey Murphy III, defensive standout Herbert Jones, and rising center Yves Missi.

Together, this group offers a strong foundation for the future – one that gives New Orleans hope as it navigates the next phase of its roster development.

Adding to that hope is the looming uncertainty surrounding Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. If the Bucks were to trade their franchise player, it could have a significant ripple effect across the league, one that might benefit New Orleans directly.

The Pelicans still control Milwaukee’s first-round pick swaps in 2026 and 2027, acquired in a previous trade. If the Bucks enter a rebuild or decline without Antetokounmpo, those future pick swaps could increase dramatically in value.

In short, while the immediate lottery outcome wasn’t ideal, the Pelicans have reasons to stay optimistic.

Between a promising young roster and the potential windfall from Milwaukee’s uncertain future, New Orleans remains in a position to strengthen its long-term outlook.