Locked On Pelicans - Daily Podcast On The New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans Pelicans face a harsh reality: trading for Ja Morant won’t fix their biggest problems. Can a flashy addition overcome the team’s lack of rim protection, rebounding, and floor spacing, or is the center position still holding them back from NBA playoff success?

Jake Madison breaks down the salary cap dilemma, explores realistic Ja Morant trade scenarios, and examines why it might not move the needle. Analysis covers the limitations of the upcoming free agent class, restricted options for upgrading at center, and the impact of controversial trade rumors around Yves Missi. Should the Pelicans run it back or start a hard reset? Get insider perspectives on the crucial roster decisions shaping the Pelicans’ future—and whether short-sighted moves will keep the team stuck in mediocrity.

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Quo

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Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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New Orleans Pelicans face a turning point as Ja Morant trade rumors spark debate: can star power alone revive a struggling franchise, or is a deeper rebuild the real solution? Questions surround Morant’s fit alongside Zion Williamson, his off-court issues, and the impact on rookie development—all with massive salary cap implications looming.

Jake Madison breaks down why Morant’s arrival could inject short-term excitement but might also clog the Pelicans’ financial future, block rookie progress, and fail to solve defensive or shooting woes. The episode covers potential trade packages, concerns with team culture, and New Orleans’ reluctance to embrace a patient rebuild. Is chasing a superstar the answer, or a distraction from addressing systemic problems? The upcoming salary cap situation and long-term team structure get examined as the Pelicans weigh risky moves against building sustainable success.

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If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  

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Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  

Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  

Quo

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Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.  

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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New Orleans Pelicans spiral after crushing defeats to the Indiana Pacers and Houston Rockets, igniting debate over whether the trade deadline should mark a hard reset or a high-risk roster shakeup. As Jay Huff and the struggling Pacers expose the Pelicans’ weaknesses, doubt grows about the team’s belief in their current core and the viability of building around Zion Williamson.

Jake Madison spotlights the organization’s pivotal decision: pursue a bold move for Ja Morant, or accept a rebuild by leveraging assets like Herb Jones. Analysis covers the shortcomings of the two-timeline strategy, the impact of rookie struggles from Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, and looming salary cap constraints that threaten the team’s flexibility. With urgency lacking from the front office and tensions rising, fans are left to question whether New Orleans can define a clear path forward before the trade deadline closes.

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Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Turbo Tax

For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  

Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/lockedonnba.  

Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.  

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Jaren Jackson Jr. might look like the perfect blockbuster fix for the New Orleans Pelicans, but could his acquisition actually set the franchise back? Jake Madison breaks down why the former Defensive Player of the Year’s elite shot-blocking and floor-spacing don’t guarantee on-court success alongside Zion Williamson or recent draftee Derik Queen. With defensive rebounding woes, risky future draft capital, and a ballooning salary cap looming, the move isn’t as clear-cut as it seems.

Key talking points include the fit of Jackson Jr. as a center or power forward in New Orleans’ lineup, the rebounding challenges that persist even with added size, and the harsh reality of salary cap constraints that could limit team-building flexibility for years. Should the Pelicans risk it all, or would this trade create more problems than it solves? Get expert insight on New Orleans’ biggest trade rumor ahead of the NBA’s trade deadline.

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DoorDash

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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New Orleans Pelicans surge past the Brooklyn Nets with Trey Murphy III's explosive 34-point performance, proving his value as the late-game closer the team desperately needed. With Zion Williamson coming alive in the third quarter and Yves Missi injecting crucial energy off the bench, Jake Madison highlights how the Pelicans are redefining their closing strategy and carving out a new team identity.

Key topics include Murphy’s All-Star-caliber run, the impact of Saddiq Bey and Yves Missi on the Pelicans’ offensive rebounding and half-court play, and the ongoing struggle to solidify the starting lineup. Jake Madison poses a pressing question: Should New Orleans prioritize winning now or focus on developing rookies like Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears as the playoffs slip further from reach? Don’t miss this sharp analysis of the Pelicans’ future and the pivotal choices facing the franchise.

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DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.  

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.  

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Zocdoc

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Wayfair

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Wayfair. Every style. Every home.  

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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New Orleans Pelicans fall short to the Denver Nuggets, raising tough questions about late-game execution and defensive effort. Without a reliable closer, the Pelicans struggle to fend off Jamal Murray's clutch scoring, while Trey Murphy racks up 31 points but can’t secure the win. Can the team find a dependable scorer when the pressure mounts, or will fourth quarter woes continue to haunt their playoff ambitions?

Jake Madison breaks down the Pelicans’ most pressing issues: a glaring lack of clutch self-creation, porous defense—especially from Zion Williamson—and the steep learning curve for rookies Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears. The episode examines strategic lineups, highlights individual player development, and discusses how these recurring problems shape roster decisions. With insights on defensive buy-in and rookie struggles, Locked On Pelicans questions what’s next for New Orleans as they prepare to face the Brooklyn Nets.

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Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  

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DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.  

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.  

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Zocdoc

Stop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need.  

Go to htps://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnba to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Wayfair

Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less.

Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.  

Wayfair. Every style. Every home.  

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (K

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New Orleans Pelicans risk repeating the Atlanta Hawks’ biggest mistake: mistaking a brief surge for true contender status. Can the Pelicans avoid falling into the same trap that led Atlanta to years of mediocrity and the eventual loss of Trae Young for minimal return? Jake Madison draws sharp parallels between the Pelicans’ current optimism and the Hawks’ ill-fated post-2021 Conference Finals decisions, questioning whether New Orleans is overvaluing flashes of success while ignoring deeper roster and identity issues.

Key topics include Zion Williamson’s impact, the overestimation of rookie contributions from players like Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears, and the perils of chasing “win now” moves at the expense of long-term stability. Asset management missteps, the risky Jordan Poole acquisition, and looming luxury tax constraints take center stage as Jake Madison breaks down what the Pelicans must do to avoid getting stuck in an endless cycle of “almost.” Will New Orleans take an honest look in the mirror before it’s too late?

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Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.  

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.  

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.  

DoorDash. In your bag all season long.

Zocdoc

Stop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need.  

Go to htps://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnba to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Wayfair

Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less.

Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.  

Wayfair. Every style. Every home.  

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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New Orleans Pelicans fans get a glimpse of the future as Trey Murphy’s star-level leap and breakout performances from rookies Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears fuel hope for the franchise. Can this young core help the Pelicans escape their roster woes and drive the team toward contention?

Jake Madison breaks down Trey Murphy’s expanded offensive arsenal, improved ball handling, and elevated rebounding that position him as a cornerstone piece for New Orleans. The analysis covers Derik Queen’s adaptability and high basketball IQ, Jeremiah Fears’ fearless approach at point guard, and impactful bench minutes from Yves Missi and Karlo Matkovic. With flashes of on-court chemistry and questions about optimal lineup construction, the episode raises the stakes for New Orleans’ next moves. Will the Pelicans unlock their true potential with this emerging core, or is a bigger shakeup still needed?

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Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More

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#NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans  

Everydayer Club  

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.  

Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub  

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.  

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.  

DoorDash. In your bag all season long.

Zocdoc

Stop putting off your doctor’s appointments and get the care you need.  

Go to htps://Zocdoc.com/lockedonnba to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.

Wayfair

Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less.

Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.  

Wayfair. Every style. Every home.  

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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New Orleans Pelicans eye a game-changing future with major Smoothie King Center and Champions Square renovations—could this bold move transform how the city supports its NBA team? Jake Madison unpacks the organization's ambitious plans, spotlighting the push for a long-term lease to secure the franchise's future in New Orleans, and the potential for a revitalized sports and entertainment district to attract fans of all kinds.

Trade rumors swirl around Trey Murphy and Herb Jones, but national media just don’t get it—will the front office choose a rebuild or chase postseason dreams? Jake Madison tackles the team's self-awareness, what a proper rebuild requires, and where rookie big man Derik Queen truly fits in modern team-building strategy. Tune in for insights on roster moves, franchise direction, and what these shake-ups mean for Pelicans fans and the city’s NBA legacy.

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Everydayer Club  

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Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/lockedonnba.  

Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.  

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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New Orleans Pelicans unravel against the Atlanta Hawks as half-court offense stalls and roster inconsistencies pile up. Can the front office deliver the fixes this team desperately needs? Zion Williamson, Jordan Poole, and rookie Jeremiah Fears struggle to make an impact while missing key shooters like Trey Murphy and Herb Jones amplifies the team's lack of firepower.

Jake Madison scrutinizes the Pelicans' ongoing transition woes, questions the guard and center play, and explores why rookie point guard struggles are nothing new—citing stars like Darius Garland and De’Aaron Fox as proof of future potential. Insightful discussion centers on the opportunity costs of the controversial Jordan Poole trade versus Atlanta’s big move for Trae Young, raising doubts about New Orleans' front office decisions and their ability to build around Fears and Queen. Is optimism fading for the Pelicans’ rebuild?

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