New Orleans Pelicans 2017-18 Roster: A Look Back

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the New Orleans Pelicans roster from the 2017-18 NBA season. This was a pretty interesting year for the Pelicans, filled with some exciting moments and notable player performances. If you're a die-hard Pelicans fan or just a basketball enthusiast, you'll definitely find this retrospective interesting. We’ll dive deep into who was on the team, key stats, and how they performed during that season.

The Roster Overview

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster featured a blend of veteran experience and emerging talent. At the forefront were the two superstar big men, Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, forming what many considered the most dominant frontcourt in the league. Surrounding them was a supporting cast designed to complement their strengths and fill in the gaps.

Anthony Davis was, without a doubt, the cornerstone of the team. His incredible athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess made him a nightly threat for a double-double, and often much more. In that season, Davis showcased why he was considered one of the NBA's elite players, consistently putting up monster numbers and leading the team on both ends of the floor. His presence alone made the Pelicans a team to watch.

DeMarcus Cousins, before his unfortunate injury, was the perfect complement to Davis. Cousins brought a unique blend of size, skill, and versatility to the Pelicans' frontcourt. He could score inside and out, rebound with ferocity, and even handle the ball and make plays for others. His partnership with Davis created matchup nightmares for opposing teams, and their on-court chemistry was a joy to watch.

However, the season took a major turn when Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in January. This was a significant blow to the Pelicans, as it not only removed a key player from the lineup but also disrupted the team's chemistry and offensive flow. The injury forced the Pelicans to make adjustments and rely on other players to step up in Cousins' absence.

Beyond Davis and Cousins, the roster included players like Jrue Holiday, who was a vital part of the team's success. Jrue Holiday was the team’s primary ball-handler and defensive anchor in the backcourt. His ability to score, create plays, and defend multiple positions made him an invaluable asset to the Pelicans. Holiday's presence provided stability and leadership to the team, and his contributions often went beyond the box score. He was the glue that held the team together, especially after Cousins' injury.

Other notable players on the roster included Rajon Rondo, E'Twaun Moore, and Darius Miller. Rajon Rondo, a seasoned veteran, brought his playmaking skills and basketball IQ to the team, providing a steady hand at the point guard position. His ability to distribute the ball and orchestrate the offense was crucial, especially in crucial moments of games. E'Twaun Moore was a reliable scorer and shooter, providing valuable offensive contributions off the bench. His consistency and ability to knock down open shots made him a valuable asset to the team's offense. Darius Miller added depth and versatility to the roster, providing another scoring option and solid defense. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down three-pointers made him a valuable role player for the Pelicans.

Key Stats and Performances

Let's break down some of the key stats and performances from the 2017-18 season. Anthony Davis had an outstanding year, averaging 28.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. These numbers underscored his dominance and impact on both ends of the court. Davis' consistent performance made him a strong candidate for the MVP award, and he continued to elevate his game throughout the season. His ability to score, rebound, and defend at an elite level made him a nightmare for opposing teams.

DeMarcus Cousins, before his injury, was averaging 25.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. These stats highlighted his all-around game and importance to the team's success. Cousins' ability to score, rebound, and create plays for others made him a unique and valuable player. His partnership with Davis was a key factor in the Pelicans' success, and his absence was felt deeply after his injury.

Jrue Holiday also had a strong season, averaging 19.0 points, 6.0 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. His contributions on both ends of the court were essential to the team's success. Holiday's ability to score, create plays, and defend made him an invaluable asset to the Pelicans. His leadership and stability were crucial, especially after Cousins' injury.

The Pelicans finished the season with a 48-34 record, securing the sixth seed in the Western Conference playoffs. This was a significant improvement from the previous season and a testament to the team's talent and hard work. The Pelicans' strong regular-season performance earned them a spot in the playoffs and an opportunity to compete for a championship.

In the playoffs, the Pelicans faced the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round. They swept the Trail Blazers in four games, showcasing their dominance and potential. The Pelicans' strong performance in the first round demonstrated their ability to compete at a high level and their determination to make a deep playoff run. The sweep of the Trail Blazers was a major statement and a sign of things to come.

In the second round, the Pelicans faced the Golden State Warriors, the defending NBA champions. The Warriors proved to be a tough opponent, and the Pelicans were eliminated in five games. Despite the loss, the Pelicans showed flashes of brilliance and demonstrated their ability to compete with the league's best teams. The series against the Warriors was a valuable learning experience for the Pelicans, and it provided them with a foundation for future success.

How the Team Performed

The 2017-18 season was a roller coaster for the New Orleans Pelicans. The team showed flashes of brilliance, particularly when Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins were both healthy and dominating. The Pelicans had a potent offense and a formidable defense. Their ability to score and defend at a high level made them a tough opponent for any team. The team's chemistry and camaraderie were evident on and off the court, contributing to their success.

However, DeMarcus Cousins' injury was a major setback, and the team had to adjust its strategy and rely on other players to step up. The injury forced the Pelicans to make adjustments and rely on other players to step up in Cousins' absence. Despite the challenges, the Pelicans showed resilience and determination, continuing to compete at a high level.

The Pelicans' playoff run was a testament to their talent and determination. The sweep of the Portland Trail Blazers was a highlight, but the loss to the Golden State Warriors showed that the team still had work to do to compete with the league's elite teams. The playoff experience was invaluable for the Pelicans, providing them with a foundation for future success.

Where Are They Now?

So, where are some of these key players now? Anthony Davis is currently a star player for the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won an NBA championship in 2020. Davis continues to be one of the league's top players, showcasing his incredible talent and versatility. His time with the Lakers has been marked by success, and he remains a dominant force in the NBA.

DeMarcus Cousins has bounced around the league since his injury, playing for several different teams. Cousins has faced challenges in his career due to injuries, but he remains a talented and capable player. His journey has been filled with ups and downs, but he continues to pursue his passion for basketball.

Jrue Holiday is now a key player for the Boston Celtics, where he continues to be a valuable contributor on both ends of the court. Holiday's defensive prowess and offensive skills make him an invaluable asset to the Celtics. His leadership and experience are crucial to the team's success, and he remains one of the league's top guards.

Rajon Rondo has retired from the NBA after a successful career, which included winning championships with the Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers. Rondo's playmaking skills and basketball IQ made him one of the most respected point guards in the league. His career was marked by success and accolades, and he leaves behind a legacy of excellence.

Final Thoughts

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans season was filled with excitement, challenges, and memorable moments. The team's performance showcased the talent and potential of its players, and the playoff run was a testament to their determination. While the season didn't end with a championship, it was a significant step forward for the franchise and provided a foundation for future success. Remembering this New Orleans Pelicans roster reminds us of the ups and downs of basketball and the enduring spirit of the game. What a ride, right? Hope you guys enjoyed this trip down memory lane!