1)      On this Western Conference Wednesday, the conference has so much parity that there are only two undefeated teams left through eight nights of action, San Antonio (3-0) and Minnesota (3-0). The most noteworthy Tuesday result in the West took place in Denver, where Dallas (3-1) handed the Nuggets (3-1) their first loss. At this exceptionally early juncture, eight West teams have winning records, including three squads that did not qualify for the postseason in the spring (Wolves 3-0, Lakers 3-1, Mavericks 3-1). Portland (2-2), Golden State (1-2) and Oklahoma City (1-3) were playoff entrants in ’19.

2)      Taking a look at power rankings released early in the week, the Pelicans were No. 21 on ESPN.com’s list, with the site writing “It has been a bummer of a start for the Pelicans, particularly because of the knee surgery that will sideline No. 1 pick Zion Williamson for six to eight weeks. But Brandon Ingram has been a major bright spot…” Other lists had New Orleans at No. 20 (The Athletic), No. 22 (SI.com), No. 23 (NBA.com) and No. 25 (CBS).

3)      Watch Tuesday post-practice interviews with rookies Jaxson Hayes and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.

4)      Alvin Gentry and Kenrich Williams also spoke to the media Tuesday.

5)      New Orleans (0-4) will host Denver (3-1) at 8:30 p.m. Thursday, in a game broadcast nationally by TNT. It will be the fourth national TV game for the Pelicans among their first five games.