I honestly dont get the hate. Its really not that bad of a name. Remember all the hate about the thunder when that name was revealed? now what? its seen as just another team in the NBA.
I remember people griping about the Heat and Magic when they entered the league.
In a league with teams named after weather, boats, horseriding tools, bodies of water, and old-timey pants, I don't think Pelicans will stand out for long.