New Orleans Pelicans Roster 2018: A Look Back

The New Orleans Pelicans roster of 2018 was a fascinating mix of established stars and emerging talent, a team that showed flashes of brilliance and moments of frustrating inconsistency. For those of us who followed the NBA closely back then, the 2018 Pelicans were definitely a team to watch. They had a unique blend of players, a specific game plan, and the ever-present pressure to perform in a competitive Western Conference. Remembering that roster brings back a flood of memories – the highs, the lows, and the what-ifs that always linger around teams of the past. We are going to dive deep into each player and talk about what made that team special. This season wasn't just about basketball; it was about the stories, the personalities, and the collective journey of a group of athletes striving for greatness. So, let’s jump right in and take a trip down memory lane to revisit the 2018 New Orleans Pelicans.

The Stars of the Show

When you think about the 2018 Pelicans, a few names immediately jump to mind. These were the players who defined the team, led the charge on the court, and captured the imagination of fans. Let's delve into the key players who shaped the Pelicans' identity during that season.

Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis, AD, The Brow – whatever you called him, he was the undisputed centerpiece of the team. In 2018, Davis was at the peak of his powers, a dominant force on both ends of the court. His scoring ability was virtually unstoppable, blending a feathery touch around the rim with the range to step out and knock down jumpers. Defensively, Davis was a shot-blocking menace, altering countless shots and deterring opponents from even thinking about driving into the paint. His athleticism was off the charts, allowing him to run the floor like a guard and elevate for highlight-reel dunks. The stats spoke for themselves, but they didn't fully capture his impact. Davis's presence alone warped the opposing team's game plan, forcing them to account for his every move. He was the kind of player who could take over a game in a heartbeat, a true superstar in every sense of the word. More than just his individual brilliance, Davis carried the hopes and dreams of the franchise on his broad shoulders. Every game was an opportunity for him to showcase his talent and lead the Pelicans to victory.

Jrue Holiday

Jrue Holiday was the perfect complement to Anthony Davis, a dynamic guard who could score, defend, and facilitate with equal aplomb. Holiday's game was built on a foundation of toughness and versatility. He hounded opposing point guards on defense, using his strength and quickness to disrupt their rhythm. Offensively, he was a crafty scorer, capable of creating his own shot or setting up teammates with pinpoint passes. His leadership on the court was invaluable, providing a calming presence in pressure situations and setting the tone for the team's intensity. Holiday's contributions often flew under the radar, but his impact was undeniable. He was the glue that held the team together, the steady hand that guided them through turbulent waters. His ability to excel on both ends of the court made him an indispensable part of the Pelicans' success. Jrue was more than just a player; he was the heart and soul of the team, a true embodiment of grit and determination.

Rajon Rondo

Rajon Rondo, the veteran point guard, brought a wealth of experience and playmaking wizardry to the Pelicans' lineup. Even at this stage of his career, Rondo's basketball IQ was off the charts. He saw the floor like few others, anticipating plays before they developed and delivering passes that seemed impossible. His ability to orchestrate the offense and find open teammates was a key factor in the Pelicans' success. While his scoring numbers may not have been eye-popping, his impact on the game was undeniable. Rondo's leadership and experience were invaluable, especially in the playoffs. He had a knack for elevating his game in the biggest moments, making clutch plays and inspiring his teammates to raise their level of play. He was the ultimate floor general, a maestro who conducted the orchestra with precision and flair. Rondo's presence on the team provided a calming influence and a sense of stability, guiding the Pelicans through the ups and downs of a long season.

Supporting Cast and Role Players

Beyond the star power, the 2018 Pelicans roster featured a collection of valuable role players who contributed in various ways. These players may not have grabbed headlines, but their contributions were essential to the team's overall success. Let's take a look at some of the key role players who rounded out the Pelicans' roster.

E'Twaun Moore

E'Twaun Moore was a reliable and versatile guard who provided consistent scoring and solid defense off the bench. Moore was known for his smooth shooting stroke and his ability to knock down open jumpers. He was a valuable floor spacer, helping to create driving lanes for Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday. Defensively, Moore was a scrappy and determined player who always gave his best effort. His consistency and reliability made him a valuable asset to the team. E'Twaun's ability to contribute on both ends of the court made him a valuable asset off the bench, providing a spark whenever the team needed a boost.

Nikola Mirotić

Nikola Mirotić arrived mid-season and provided a significant boost to the Pelicans' offense. Mirotić was a stretch four with a sweet shooting stroke, capable of knocking down threes from anywhere on the court. His ability to space the floor opened up the paint for Anthony Davis and created more opportunities for the Pelicans' offense to thrive. Mirotić also provided valuable rebounding and interior defense. His arrival transformed the Pelicans' offensive attack, adding a new dimension that opponents struggled to contain. Nikola's presence injected a new energy into the team, helping them surge down the stretch and secure a playoff berth.

Darius Miller

Darius Miller was a sharpshooting wing who provided valuable floor spacing and perimeter defense. Miller was known for his ability to knock down open threes and his willingness to take on tough defensive assignments. His consistency and reliability made him a valuable role player off the bench. Darius's contributions often went unnoticed, but his steady presence helped the team maintain its composure and execute its game plan.

Coaching and Strategy

Behind every successful team is a capable coaching staff, and the 2018 Pelicans were no exception. Head coach Alvin Gentry and his assistants implemented a system that maximized the team's strengths and exploited its opponents' weaknesses.

Alvin Gentry

Alvin Gentry was the head coach of the Pelicans in 2018, and he brought a wealth of experience and offensive expertise to the team. Gentry's coaching philosophy emphasized pace and space, encouraging his players to push the ball in transition and create open looks. He empowered his star players to make plays and trusted his role players to execute their assignments. Gentry's leadership and guidance were instrumental in the Pelicans' success that season. Alvin's ability to connect with his players and create a positive team environment fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose.

Offensive and Defensive Strategies

The Pelicans' offensive strategy revolved around Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday, utilizing their unique skill sets to create scoring opportunities. The team emphasized ball movement and spacing, looking to exploit mismatches and create open looks from beyond the arc. Defensively, the Pelicans focused on protecting the paint and forcing turnovers, utilizing their length and athleticism to disrupt opponents' offenses. The coaching staff implemented a game plan that maximized the team's strengths and minimized its weaknesses, leading to a successful season.

Season Highlights and Playoff Run

The 2018 season was filled with memorable moments for the Pelicans, including impressive wins, individual achievements, and a thrilling playoff run. The team finished with a record of 48-34, securing the sixth seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

Regular Season Standouts

During the regular season, Anthony Davis continued his ascent to superstardom, putting up MVP-caliber numbers and leading the team in scoring, rebounding, and blocks. Jrue Holiday emerged as one of the league's premier two-way guards, excelling on both ends of the court. The addition of Nikola Mirotić provided a significant boost to the team's offense, helping them surge down the stretch. The Pelicans' regular season success was a testament to their talent, chemistry, and coaching.

Memorable Games and Moments

There were several memorable games and moments throughout the 2018 season, including a thrilling overtime victory over the Boston Celtics, a dominant performance against the Golden State Warriors, and a series of clutch performances from Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday. These moments showcased the Pelicans' potential and provided a glimpse of what they were capable of achieving.

Playoff Series vs. Portland Trail Blazers

The Pelicans faced the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the playoffs, and they shocked the basketball world by sweeping the series in four games. Anthony Davis dominated the series, averaging 33.0 points and 11.8 rebounds per game. Jrue Holiday was equally impressive, shutting down Damian Lillard and leading the Pelicans' offense. The Pelicans' series victory was a statement to the rest of the league, proving that they were a force to be reckoned with.

Playoff Series vs. Golden State Warriors

In the second round, the Pelicans faced the defending champion Golden State Warriors, and they put up a valiant fight before ultimately falling in five games. Anthony Davis continued his dominant play, but the Warriors' firepower proved to be too much for the Pelicans to overcome. Despite the series loss, the Pelicans gained valuable experience and proved that they could compete with the best teams in the league.

Where Are They Now?

As time marches on, the players from the 2018 Pelicans roster have moved on to different teams and different phases of their careers. Let's take a quick look at where some of the key players are now.

• Anthony Davis: After spending several seasons with the Pelicans, Davis was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won an NBA championship in 2020.
• Jrue Holiday: Holiday was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he also won an NBA championship in 2021.
• Rajon Rondo: Rondo has played for several teams since leaving the Pelicans, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Atlanta Hawks, and Los Angeles Clippers.
• E'Twaun Moore: Moore has played for several teams since leaving the Pelicans, including the Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic.
• Nikola Mirotić: Mirotić returned to Europe and has been playing professionally in Spain.

Legacy and Impact

The 2018 New Orleans Pelicans roster, while ultimately falling short of championship glory, left a lasting legacy on the franchise and the city of New Orleans. The team's exciting style of play, led by the electrifying Anthony Davis and the dynamic Jrue Holiday, captivated fans and created a buzz around the league. The playoff sweep of the Portland Trail Blazers was a signature moment, showcasing the team's potential and providing a glimpse of what could have been. Although the team was eventually dismantled, the memories of that season remain vivid for Pelicans fans.

The 2018 Pelicans roster will be remembered for its blend of star power, role-player contributions, and innovative coaching. The team's success provided hope and excitement for the future, and its impact can still be felt in the organization today. The players and coaches who were a part of that team will forever be linked in Pelicans' history, and their contributions will be celebrated for years to come. The 2018 Pelicans were more than just a team; they were a symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of the city of New Orleans.