New Orleans Pelicans: 2017-18 Season Review & Highlights

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 57 views

Let's dive deep into the New Orleans Pelicans' 2017-18 season, guys! It was a year of exciting highs and some frustrating lows, ultimately culminating in a playoff appearance that gave fans a taste of what could be. We'll break down the key players, pivotal moments, and overall narrative of this memorable season. So, buckle up, Pelicans fans, and let's take a trip down memory lane!

Season Overview

The 2017-18 season was a significant one for the New Orleans Pelicans. After years of struggling to find consistent success and playoff contention, there was a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the team. The Pelicans boasted a dynamic duo in Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, two of the league's premier big men. The hope was that their combined talent, along with a supporting cast of capable players, would be enough to propel the team into the upper echelon of the Western Conference. The team navigated through injuries, trades, and various challenges, ultimately finishing with a 48-34 record, securing the sixth seed in the Western Conference playoffs. This was a marked improvement from previous seasons and provided a foundation for future growth. The season was defined by offensive firepower, particularly in the frontcourt, but also saw improvements on the defensive end as the season progressed. Alvin Gentry, the head coach, experimented with different lineups and strategies, searching for the optimal formula for success. The Pelicans' journey throughout the 2017-18 season was a testament to their resilience and determination, capturing the attention of fans and analysts alike. The regular season success set the stage for an exciting playoff run, exceeding many expectations and offering a glimpse into the team's potential.

Key Players

Anthony Davis: AD was an absolute beast during the 2017-18 season, solidifying his place as one of the league's top superstars. His scoring was elite, his rebounding was ferocious, and his defense was a game-changer. He was a walking highlight reel, and the Pelicans went as he went. Davis consistently delivered dominant performances, showcasing his versatility and athleticism on both ends of the court. His ability to score from anywhere, protect the rim, and run the floor made him a nightmare matchup for opponents. Beyond the stats, Davis's leadership and determination were evident, setting the tone for the team's competitive spirit. He embraced the responsibility of being the team's cornerstone player, consistently rising to the occasion in crucial moments. His exceptional play earned him accolades and further cemented his status as a franchise player. Davis's impact extended beyond the box score, inspiring his teammates and energizing the fanbase with his electrifying performances. His presence alone elevated the Pelicans' competitiveness, making them a formidable force in the Western Conference. He averaged incredible stats, truly cementing himself as a force to be reckoned with.
DeMarcus Cousins: Before his devastating injury, Boogie was playing some of the best basketball of his career. His inside-outside game was a perfect complement to Davis, and together they formed the most dominant frontcourt in the NBA. His passing, scoring, and rebounding were all top-notch. Cousins brought a unique blend of skill and physicality to the Pelicans, creating matchup problems for opposing defenses. His ability to score in the post, shoot from three-point range, and facilitate the offense made him a versatile weapon. Beyond his individual talents, Cousins's fiery competitiveness and passion for the game were infectious. He brought an edge to the Pelicans, instilling a sense of urgency and determination. His presence on the court not only elevated the team's performance but also created opportunities for his teammates. The combination of Cousins and Davis formed a formidable duo, capable of overwhelming opponents with their size, skill, and intensity. Although his season was cut short due to injury, Cousins's impact on the Pelicans was undeniable, leaving fans wondering what could have been.
Jrue Holiday: Jrue was the unsung hero of the team. His defense was lockdown, his playmaking was underrated, and his scoring was clutch. He was the glue that held everything together. Holiday emerged as a vital component of the Pelicans' success, showcasing his all-around abilities on both ends of the court. His defensive prowess was particularly noteworthy, consistently shutting down opposing guards and disrupting their offensive flow. Beyond his defensive contributions, Holiday's playmaking skills were essential to the Pelicans' offensive efficiency. He expertly navigated the pick-and-roll, made timely passes, and created scoring opportunities for his teammates. In addition to his defensive and playmaking contributions, Holiday also demonstrated his scoring ability, knocking down crucial shots in key moments. His versatility and reliability made him an indispensable member of the team, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches. Holiday's impact extended beyond the stat sheet, as his leadership and composure helped guide the Pelicans through challenging situations. He consistently delivered solid performances, solidifying his role as a cornerstone player for the franchise.

Key Moments

DeMarcus Cousins' Injury: This was a season-altering moment. When Cousins went down with a torn Achilles, it not only robbed him of a potential max contract but also forced the Pelicans to re-evaluate their entire strategy. It was a tough blow for the team's morale and chemistry. The injury cast a shadow over the Pelicans' season, raising questions about their ability to maintain their competitiveness without Cousins's presence. The team had to adapt quickly, reconfiguring their offensive and defensive schemes to compensate for the loss of their star center. This adversity tested the team's resilience and forced other players to step up and assume larger roles. While the injury was a setback, it also created opportunities for other players to shine and demonstrate their capabilities. The Pelicans rallied together, determined to overcome the challenge and continue their pursuit of playoff contention. This moment served as a turning point, highlighting the team's depth and their ability to persevere in the face of adversity.
Rajon Rondo's Arrival: Rondo brought veteran leadership, playmaking, and a high basketball IQ to the team. His presence transformed the Pelicans' offense and made everyone around him better. The arrival of Rajon Rondo injected a new level of sophistication and control into the Pelicans' offense. His exceptional court vision, passing skills, and basketball IQ elevated the team's playmaking abilities. Rondo's ability to anticipate plays, make pinpoint passes, and orchestrate the offense made him an invaluable asset. Beyond his playmaking abilities, Rondo's veteran leadership and experience were crucial in guiding the team through challenging situations. He served as a mentor to the younger players, sharing his knowledge and insights. His presence on the court instilled confidence and composure in his teammates, helping them perform at their best. Rondo's impact extended beyond the stat sheet, as his leadership and basketball acumen transformed the Pelicans' offensive identity. He brought a sense of poise and control to the team, solidifying their position as a contender in the Western Conference. His arrival marked a turning point, ushering in a new era of intelligent and strategic basketball for the Pelicans.
Playoff Sweep of the Portland Trail Blazers: This was an incredible moment for the franchise and its fans. Nobody expected the Pelicans to sweep the Blazers, but they did it in dominant fashion, showcasing their potential to compete with the league's best. The Pelicans' unexpected sweep of the Portland Trail Blazers sent shockwaves throughout the NBA, solidifying their status as a legitimate playoff contender. The team's dominant performance, characterized by stifling defense and explosive offense, left fans and analysts in awe. The sweep showcased the Pelicans' ability to execute their game plan flawlessly, stifling the Blazers' key players and exploiting their weaknesses. Beyond the tactical aspects, the sweep was a testament to the Pelicans' unwavering belief in themselves and their ability to compete at the highest level. The series win ignited a sense of excitement and optimism among Pelicans fans, who had long awaited a deep playoff run. The sweep served as a statement to the rest of the league, signaling that the Pelicans were a force to be reckoned with. It was a defining moment for the franchise, validating their efforts and setting the stage for future success.

Season Stats and Highlights

Let's break down some of the key stats and highlights that defined the Pelicans' 2017-18 season:

Anthony Davis' Dominance: Davis averaged 28.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. Those are MVP-caliber numbers, guys! He was a force on both ends of the floor, leading the team in scoring, rebounding, and blocks. His consistent dominance made him a perennial All-Star and a top contender for the league's MVP award. Davis's ability to score from anywhere on the court, combined with his defensive prowess, made him a nightmare matchup for opponents. He consistently delivered game-changing performances, solidifying his status as one of the league's elite players.
Offensive Firepower: The Pelicans boasted one of the league's most potent offenses, averaging 110.4 points per game, which ranked among the top teams in the NBA. Their ability to score in transition, in the half-court, and from beyond the arc made them a difficult team to defend. The Pelicans' offensive success was predicated on their ability to spread the floor, create open looks for their shooters, and capitalize on mismatches. Their diverse offensive attack kept opposing defenses on their toes, making them a constant threat to score. The team's offensive firepower was a key factor in their success, allowing them to outscore opponents and secure crucial victories.
Improved Defense: While their offense garnered most of the attention, the Pelicans also made strides on the defensive end. They held opponents to 108.0 points per game, showcasing their commitment to improving their defensive efficiency. The Pelicans' defensive improvements were driven by their increased effort, communication, and attention to detail. They focused on limiting opponent penetration, contesting shots, and securing rebounds. Their defensive progress allowed them to compete with the league's top teams, solidifying their position as a playoff contender. The team's commitment to defense was a key factor in their overall success, complementing their offensive firepower and contributing to their winning record.

Final Thoughts

The 2017-18 season was a rollercoaster for the New Orleans Pelicans, filled with both exhilarating highs and heartbreaking lows. While the injury to DeMarcus Cousins undoubtedly changed the trajectory of the season, the team showed remarkable resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Anthony Davis cemented his status as a superstar, Jrue Holiday emerged as a vital two-way player, and Rajon Rondo provided invaluable leadership and playmaking. The playoff sweep of the Portland Trail Blazers was a defining moment for the franchise, showcasing their potential to compete with the league's best. While the season ultimately ended in the second round of the playoffs, it provided a foundation for future success. The Pelicans demonstrated their ability to compete at a high level, and their fans have reason to be optimistic about the future. The 2017-18 season will be remembered as a pivotal moment in Pelicans history, marking the beginning of a new era of competitiveness and excitement.