Pelicans Finding Identity Late as Borrego Emphasizes Growth Over Results

The New Orleans Pelicans may be running out of time in the playoff race, but internally, a different story is unfolding. Interim coach James Borrego has made it clear that the team’s recent improvement is not about chasing narratives—it is about tangible growth inside the locker room.

Despite long odds of reaching the postseason, New Orleans has quietly put together a stretch of more cohesive basketball following the All-Star break. At the center of that surge are Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray, both performing at a high level as the team begins to find rhythm.

Borrego has downplayed the idea that strategy alone is behind the turnaround. Instead, he points to effort, urgency, and a collective mindset that has gradually taken shape over the course of the season, rather than emerging overnight.

While the standings may not reflect it, the Pelicans are beginning to resemble a team with direction—one that is using the final stretch of the season to establish a foundation rather than dwell on missed opportunities.

1. Lineup Chemistry Driving Improvement

A key factor in New Orleans’ recent form has been the stability of its starting lineup. With Murray back in the fold, the group has quickly developed chemistry that has translated into more fluid offensive execution and improved spacing. Alongside Williamson and Murray, players like Trey Murphy III and Saddiq Bey have benefited from clearer roles. Murphy’s perimeter shooting and Bey’s versatility complement Williamson’s interior dominance, creating a balanced attack that is harder to defend. Meanwhile, Herb Jones has provided a steady presence on both ends of the floor. His ability to handle the ball, defend multiple positions, and contribute without needing high usage has helped stabilize the lineup. Borrego has credited the group’s cohesion as a major reason for the team’s improved play. At a time when many teams are fading, the Pelicans’ starting unit has instead begun to click, offering a glimpse of what could be possible over a longer stretch.

2. Health and Mindset Fuel the Surge

Murray’s return has played a pivotal role in restoring structure to the Pelicans’ system. His presence as a primary ball handler has eased pressure on Williamson while improving the team’s organization, particularly in late-game situations. Defensively, Murray’s length alongside Jones has added a disruptive element that had been inconsistent earlier in the season. The Pelicans now appear more connected on that end, with better communication and effort across the board. Still, Borrego has resisted attributing the team’s progress solely to improved health. He has consistently emphasized a deeper shift in mindset, pointing to the group’s commitment to competing and supporting one another. That mentality, he argues, has been building over time. Even during losing stretches, the Pelicans continued to find themselves in close games, gaining experience that is now paying off as execution improves in key moments.

3. Late Push Signals Future Promise

Statistically, the Pelicans’ recent stretch reflects their improved cohesion. Over the past 15 games, the team has ranked among the league’s more efficient offenses, with strong numbers in scoring, shooting percentage, and free-throw generation. Williamson’s dominance in the paint, combined with Murray’s shot creation and Murphy’s spacing, has created a more dynamic offensive identity. Bey’s adaptability and Jones’ defensive presence round out a lineup that is beginning to operate with clarity and purpose. Despite these gains, the reality of the standings remains. New Orleans still faces an uphill climb to secure a spot in the postseason, trailing teams like the Golden State Warriors in the race for the final Play-In position. Even so, the Pelicans are focused less on outcomes and more on progress. As the season winds down, the emphasis has shifted toward building continuity, reinforcing habits, and establishing a culture that can carry into next year.