New Orleans Pelicans dropped two spots to No. 28 in The Athletic's updated NBA Power Rankings as free agency settled, per Law Murray's analysis. The Pelicans are optimistic they can compete for a postseason spot this year but face skepticism from the wider basketball world. Murray criticized the decision to 'run it back' without making significant moves, noting New Orleans avoided a full rebuild despite limited flexibility. Last result: Minnesota Timberwolves 132-126 New Orleans Pelicans (2026-04-13). The Pelicans' recent form shows 2W-0D-3L over their last five games, losing the last two contests. The teams below New Orleans in the rankings are the Milwaukee Bucks and Chicago Bulls, not the Sacramento Kings as many expected. The Bucks are widely viewed as a bottom-two team, which benefits New Orleans since they own Milwaukee's future draft pick if it lands favorably. The Bulls underwent a coaching change and added Norman Powell while drafting Caleb Wilson with the No. 4 pick, signaling an intent to be competitive. The Kings, often ranked below New Orleans due to public mistrust, have embraced a rebuild and expect to remain near the bottom. Herb Jones remains the glue of the Pelicans' roster, though he missed stretches last season due to injury. Dejounte Murray showed early promise in limited action when healthy, but the team never fully clicked. If New Orleans puts it all together and starts winning consistently, they may earn more respect from NBA analysts and fans alike.