During the 2013-14 season the Pelicans defense was abysmal. They ranked 26th in defensive rating and got worse as the season wore on. Injuries played a part in that, but the personnel and scheme were also to blame. New Orleans attempted to hedge hard against the pick and roll leading to disastrous results. When they weren't making layups Pelican opponents were at the foul line, New Orleans ranked dead last in free throw attempt rate allowed. Even if they did force a miss the Pelicans rebounded defensively at a poor rate, 21st in the league according to Basketball Reference.
Shooting for Success: Pelicans defense does not improve enough to save Monty Williams
