Funny enough, traditionally if the Pelicans drafted a guy like Dieng at the 8 spot, they would get absolutely torched by national media and even local media. On the other hand, if the Spurs grabbed Dieng at 9, national media would say it's a classic Spurs pick and what do they know about this guy that we don't. And I feel like those reputations were earned, for the most part.
Now, it feels like the media perceptive of the Pelicans front office has done a 180, and I bet you see general praise for whoever they pick at 8. Amazing what one good season can do for you, but it's nice to have a year where it doesn't feel like our FO is acting with their first priority being to save their own butt with short sighted moves. Griff has definitely earned a little extra leash