As the Charlotte Hornets reclaim their original team mascot, the New Orleans Pelicans usher in one of the worst names and mascots in professional sports history. Whoever gets the job of running around in a pelican costume will definitely turn some heads and may garner more eyes than the team itself, but this new name will require some getting used to for basketball fans. Nevertheless, the game must go on and New Orleans will kick off the NBA season as host to the Orlando Magic.
Both teams are coming off dismal seasons, finishing well below .500 and coming nowhere close to playoff berths. However, both contain some terrific young talent and should see some success coming down the pipe. Orlando has young talent in Victor Oladipo, Nikola Vucevic and Tobias Harris. They added some veteran leadership this offseason with Ben Gordon, Channing Frye and Luke Ridnour.
New Orleans is all youth with an average roster age of 25 years old. The young talent includes former Kentucky standout Anthony Davis and offseason addition Omer Asik to help bolster the frontcourt. The backcourt is led by two impressive guards in Eric Gordon and Jrue Holiday. The future of the league can essentially be found in the Buoy.
Opening night between these two franchises will almost be like the Rising Stars Challenge. The Magic have a legit shot at the playoffs in a weak East, but the Pelicans will have to continue to improve in a savage West. As for the opening night showdown, Orlando should walk away with a victory. The combination of youth and veterans will suit them well against New Orleans. Look for the Magic to prevail by a final of 101-91.
Shane Phillips is an NBA Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow Shane on Twitter @ShaneRantSports, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google. You can also email Shane at [email protected].
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