New Orleans Pelicans 2017-18 Roster: A Deep Dive

Hey Pelicans fans! Let's take a trip down memory lane and dissect the New Orleans Pelicans roster from the 2017-18 season. This was a pivotal year for the franchise, marked by high expectations and a fascinating blend of talent. Whether you're a die-hard fan looking to reminisce or a newer supporter eager to learn about the team's history, this in-depth look should have something for everyone. This roster featured some exciting players, a mix of veteran leadership, and young potential that made for a compelling season of basketball. We’ll break down the key players, discuss their roles, and analyze how they contributed to the team’s overall performance. So buckle up, and let's get started!

The Star Power: Davis and Cousins

When discussing the 2017-18 Pelicans, it's impossible to ignore the twin towers of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. These two dominant big men formed one of the most intriguing frontcourt pairings in the NBA. Their combined skill set promised a potent offensive force and a formidable defensive presence. Anthony Davis, already an established superstar, was entering his prime. His ability to score inside and out, combined with his shot-blocking prowess, made him a nightly matchup nightmare for opponents. During the 2017-18 season, Davis continued to elevate his game, showcasing improved leadership and a greater consistency that solidified his status as one of the league’s elite players. His impact on both ends of the floor was undeniable, and the Pelicans' success was heavily reliant on his performance each night.

DeMarcus Cousins, known for his versatility and fiery passion, brought a unique dimension to the team. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate made him a challenging cover for opposing centers. Before his unfortunate injury, Cousins was having a stellar season, demonstrating a commitment to team play and a willingness to adapt his game to complement Davis. Together, they presented a significant challenge for any team attempting to defend the paint or control the boards. The combination of Davis's athleticism and Cousins's power created numerous opportunities for the Pelicans on offense, while their size and strength made it difficult for opponents to score inside. The potential of this duo was immense, and many believed that they could lead the Pelicans to deep playoff runs.

The Supporting Cast: Key Contributors

Beyond Davis and Cousins, the 2017-18 Pelicans roster boasted a supporting cast of players who played crucial roles in the team's success. These players provided valuable contributions on both ends of the floor, helping to fill in the gaps and complement the star power of Davis and Cousins. Jrue Holiday emerged as a vital component of the team, showcasing his skills as a two-way player. His ability to score, defend, and facilitate made him an indispensable part of the Pelicans' lineup. Holiday's defensive intensity and offensive versatility provided a much-needed balance to the team, and his presence on the court often elevated the play of his teammates. He was the steady hand that the Pelicans needed to navigate through challenging games and tough opponents.

Rajon Rondo, a seasoned veteran known for his playmaking abilities, brought a wealth of experience and basketball IQ to the team. His passing skills and court vision elevated the Pelicans' offense, creating easy scoring opportunities for his teammates. Rondo's leadership and ability to control the tempo of the game were invaluable assets, particularly in crucial moments. He was the floor general that the Pelicans needed to orchestrate their offense and make smart decisions under pressure. E'Twaun Moore provided valuable scoring and shooting off the bench, adding depth to the Pelicans' backcourt. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc helped to space the floor and create driving lanes for Davis and Cousins. Moore's consistent performance and reliable shooting made him a valuable asset for the Pelicans throughout the season. These players, along with others like Darius Miller and Ian Clark, formed a cohesive unit that supported the team's stars and contributed to their overall success.

The Impact of Injury

Unfortunately, the Pelicans' promising season faced a significant setback when DeMarcus Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in January 2018. This injury not only sidelined one of the team's key players but also forced the Pelicans to adjust their strategy and rely more heavily on Anthony Davis and the remaining members of the supporting cast. The loss of Cousins's scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities was a major blow to the team, and it forced them to find new ways to generate offense and defend the paint. Despite the setback, the Pelicans demonstrated resilience and determination, rallying together to maintain their playoff aspirations. The remaining players stepped up their game, filling in the gaps left by Cousins's absence and showcasing their ability to compete at a high level. While the injury undoubtedly impacted the team's potential, it also provided an opportunity for other players to shine and contribute in meaningful ways.

Adjustments and Resilience

Following Cousins's injury, the Pelicans made strategic adjustments to their lineup and game plan. Nikola Mirotic was acquired via trade to bolster the frontcourt and provide additional scoring and rebounding. Mirotic's ability to stretch the floor and knock down shots from the perimeter added a new dimension to the Pelicans' offense, while his size and rebounding helped to compensate for the loss of Cousins. The Pelicans also relied more heavily on Anthony Davis, who continued to dominate on both ends of the floor. Davis elevated his game even further, showcasing his versatility and leadership while carrying the team on his shoulders. Jrue Holiday also stepped up his offensive production, becoming a more assertive scorer and playmaker. The Pelicans demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity, adapting their game plan and finding ways to win despite the absence of one of their key players. Their ability to adjust and overcome challenges was a testament to their character and determination.

Playoff Push and Performance

Despite the challenges posed by Cousins's injury, the Pelicans managed to secure a playoff berth in the competitive Western Conference. Their strong regular-season performance earned them the sixth seed, setting up a first-round matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers. In a stunning upset, the Pelicans swept the Trail Blazers in four games, showcasing their defensive intensity and offensive firepower. Anthony Davis led the charge, dominating the series with his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking. Jrue Holiday also played a key role, shutting down Damian Lillard and limiting his offensive impact. The Pelicans' surprising sweep of the Trail Blazers sent a message to the rest of the league, demonstrating their ability to compete with the top teams in the conference. While they ultimately fell to the Golden State Warriors in the second round, the Pelicans' playoff run was a memorable one, filled with exciting moments and impressive performances.

Final Thoughts

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a fascinating mix of talent, potential, and resilience. Led by the dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, and supported by a cast of skilled players like Jrue Holiday and Rajon Rondo, the team showed flashes of brilliance and made a memorable playoff run. While Cousins's injury undoubtedly altered the course of the season, the Pelicans demonstrated their ability to adapt and overcome challenges. This season served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of basketball and the importance of teamwork, determination, and resilience. As we look back on this era, it's clear that the 2017-18 Pelicans left a lasting impact on the franchise and its fans.