New Orleans Pelicans 2017-18 Roster: A Deep Dive

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a fascinating mix of talent, hope, and ultimately, a team that clawed its way to the playoffs in a tough Western Conference. This season is particularly memorable for the dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, a pairing that had the potential to dominate the league. Unfortunately, injuries played a significant role in shaping the team's trajectory, but let's dive deep into the roster and explore the key players, their roles, and the overall impact they had on the Pelicans' season.

Key Players and Their Impact

At the forefront of the Pelicans' attack was Anthony Davis, a perennial All-Star and one of the most versatile big men in the NBA. During the 2017-18 season, Davis showcased his incredible scoring ability, averaging impressive numbers while also contributing significantly on the defensive end with blocks and steals. His ability to stretch the floor, post up, and attack the rim made him a nightmare matchup for opposing teams. Beyond the stats, Davis provided leadership and a competitive fire that permeated the team. His presence alone elevated the Pelicans' ceiling, and he was the undisputed cornerstone of the franchise. His impact extended beyond the court, as he was a fan favorite and a symbol of hope for the city of New Orleans.

Alongside Davis was DeMarcus Cousins, another dominant big man known for his scoring prowess, rebounding, and playmaking ability. Cousins brought a unique blend of skill and physicality to the Pelicans, complementing Davis' game perfectly. The pairing of Davis and Cousins created matchup problems for every team in the league, as they could score inside and out, pass, and rebound at a high level. Before his injury, Cousins was having a career year, showcasing his all-around game and proving why he was considered one of the best centers in the NBA. His presence on the court not only elevated the team's performance but also brought a level of intensity and swagger that resonated with the fans. However, his season was cut short due to a torn Achilles tendon, a devastating blow to the Pelicans' aspirations.

Rajon Rondo, a seasoned veteran with a reputation for his exceptional passing and basketball IQ, was the floor general for the Pelicans. Rondo's ability to distribute the ball, control the tempo, and make smart decisions was crucial to the team's success. He elevated the play of those around him, finding teammates in their sweet spots and creating easy scoring opportunities. Rondo's leadership and experience were invaluable, especially in crucial moments of games. His impact extended beyond the court, as he served as a mentor to the younger players and helped instill a winning mentality within the team. Rondo's playoff performance was particularly noteworthy, as he showcased his ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage, leading the Pelicans to a first-round sweep of the Portland Trail Blazers.

Role Players and Bench Contributions

While the star power of Davis, Cousins, and Rondo garnered much of the attention, the Pelicans also had a solid supporting cast that played crucial roles in the team's success. Jrue Holiday, a versatile guard known for his scoring, defense, and playmaking, was an integral part of the Pelicans' backcourt. Holiday's ability to guard multiple positions, create his own shot, and distribute the ball made him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor. He provided a steady presence and a calming influence, especially during high-pressure situations. Holiday's defensive prowess was particularly noteworthy, as he often took on the challenge of guarding the opposing team's best player. His contributions often went unnoticed, but he was undoubtedly one of the most important players on the Pelicans' roster.

iku Moore, a sharpshooting guard, provided valuable scoring off the bench. Moore's ability to knock down open shots and spread the floor was crucial to the Pelicans' offensive spacing. He was a reliable scoring option and a threat from beyond the arc, forcing opposing defenses to respect his range. Moore's contributions off the bench provided a spark and helped maintain the team's offensive momentum. His ability to come in and immediately impact the game made him a valuable asset to the Pelicans.

E'Twaun Moore, another reliable wing player, contributed with his scoring, defense, and overall versatility. Moore's ability to play multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor made him a valuable role player. He was a consistent presence and a reliable option off the bench. Moore's defensive effort and willingness to do the dirty work made him a valuable asset to the Pelicans.

Overcoming Adversity and Playoff Run

Despite the setback of Cousins' injury, the Pelicans demonstrated resilience and determination, finishing the season strong and securing a playoff berth. The team rallied around Davis, Rondo, and Holiday, and the role players stepped up to fill the void left by Cousins. The Pelicans' first-round series against the Portland Trail Blazers was a testament to their teamwork and determination, as they swept the Blazers in dominant fashion. Davis led the charge, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the floor, while Rondo orchestrated the offense with his exceptional passing and playmaking. The Pelicans' playoff run was a testament to their resilience and their ability to overcome adversity.

Coaching and Team Dynamics

Alvin Gentry, the head coach of the Pelicans, played a crucial role in fostering a positive team environment and maximizing the potential of his players. Gentry's offensive system emphasized pace and spacing, allowing the Pelicans to utilize their athleticism and scoring ability. He also instilled a defensive mindset, emphasizing effort and communication. Gentry's ability to connect with his players and create a cohesive unit was instrumental in the Pelicans' success. His leadership and guidance helped the team navigate the challenges they faced throughout the season.

The team chemistry and camaraderie were also important factors in the Pelicans' success. The players genuinely enjoyed playing together, and their positive relationships translated to on-court success. The leadership of Davis, Rondo, and Holiday helped create a culture of accountability and teamwork. The Pelicans' ability to come together and support each other, especially after Cousins' injury, was a testament to their strong team bond.

Final Thoughts

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a team full of potential and promise. The combination of star power, role players, and strong coaching made them a formidable force in the Western Conference. While injuries ultimately derailed their championship aspirations, the Pelicans provided fans with an exciting and memorable season. The emergence of Davis as a true superstar, the contributions of Rondo and Holiday, and the resilience of the team in the face of adversity were all highlights of the Pelicans' season. This season serves as a reminder of the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and the ability to overcome challenges, a testament to the spirit of the New Orleans Pelicans.

Guys, reflecting on that 2017-18 Pelicans roster really brings back some memories! That team had so much potential, and it was awesome to see them make a playoff run. It's a bummer about Cousins' injury, but they still showed a lot of heart. What are your favorite memories from that season? Let's chat about it!