What James Borrego has as his main ‘focal point’ for 2026.

For all defenders progress Zion Williamson’s New Orleans Pelicans believe they are headed for 2026, one question continues to undermine their rise. In the eyes of James Borregodefensive rebounding is no longer a secondary concern or situational weakness. It’s the defining variable that separates a respectable team from a potentially postseason contender.

Interim coach he didn’t mince words.

“After all, we’ve been at the bottom of the league in defensive rebounding since December. We’ve moved the needle defensively. Now we’re 18th or 19th, up from 29th. If we were just an average defensive rebounding team, we’d be a top 10 defense right now, as of Dec. 1.”

The the numbers tell a sobering story. Despite legitimate improvements in perimeter defense, rim protection and overall scheme execution, the Pelicans continue to surrender second chances at an alarming rate. Opponents crash the offensive glass with impunity, erasing the hard work put in during opening defensive possessions.

The Pelicans do almost everything right on defense except finish the job. A stop means nothing when the opponent gets two or three attempts to score on one possession. It’s death by a thousand cuts, and it’s costing the Pelicans key games in the hotly contested Western Conference.

Borrego does not shy away from responsibility.

“So (defensive rebounding) is the number one thing on our board. We have to get better in that area. It’s up to me to figure out the lineups, our habits and drills work whenever we get the chance. We don’t practice a lot right now, but even in shooting around us it’s a focal point. We have to say it can’t get any better in this area.

The challenge is multifaceted. Size and length are persistent issues for this roster, and the modern NBA’s emphasis on pace and spacing often leaves traditional jumpers out of position. The Pelicans have relied heavily on switch schemes and aggressive perimeter rotations, which can threaten the rebounding position. When everyone is trying to compete, the basic task of boxing and securing the basketball becomes an afterthought.

However, the fundamentals give reason for optimism. Zion Williamson’s Pelicans have already proven themselves they can improve dramatically in one area of ​​defense. The jump from 29th to the high-teens in overall defensive rating is a significant improvement and speaks to the involvement of the players and the effectiveness of the coaching staff. If they can make that kind of jump in overall defense, there’s no reason they can’t fix their rebounding deficiencies.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on whether Borrego can solve this puzzle. Can the Pelicans find the right lineup combinations that balance defensive versatility with rebounding tenacity? Will the emphasis on every available practice moment eventually translate into game action? Can individual players develop the discipline and positioning required for a defensive rebound?

The answers to these questions will likely determine whether Zion Williamson’s Pelicans come out of the cellar and help James Borrego land a permanent job.