LEXINGTON, KY - AUGUST 06: Rajon Rondo waves to the crowd after being introduced at center court during week seven of the BIG3 three on three basketball league at Rupp Arena on August 6, 2017 in Lexington, Kentucky. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

During the free agency period, the New Orleans Pelicans sought to do three things. They were to retain Jrue Holiday, improve the perimeter shooting and raise the overall basketball IQ of the team. General Manager Dell Demps succeeded in all three facets by re-signing Jrue Holiday, signing Darius Miller and Ian Clark and adding floor general Rajon Rondo.

While the majority only see these additions from a surface perspective, their combined contributions and complimentary skill sets could possibly be huge for the previously depth deficient New Orleans Pelicans.

This much improved bench is not just from talent alone, but how Gentry will utilize them from game to game. As Gentry has previously stated, he would like to have either Davis or Cousins on the court at the at all times. This can be said for the guard/wing positions as well.

By adding quality veterans to the rotation, Gentry will be able to keep Rondo, Holiday or Solomon Hill on the floor to provide stability for the offense. The significance of this is massive because it allows multiple options to be developed by the coaching staff with a legit player on the floor at all times. Once the starters are to be subbed in around the five minute mark, Gentry can begin to make the necessary substitutions. The team’s bench is improved significantly because of what Demps has been able to add this summer.

The Pelicans must see improvement from the bench to accomplish their goal of reaching the playoffs this season. With the return of key players, new additions to the rotation that have championship experience and having the opportunity to have a full training camp at near full health, fans should see a vast improvement from this club, who is destined for greatness. The playoffs should be in reach.