New Orleans Pelicans Roster: 2017-18 Season

Let's dive into the New Orleans Pelicans roster for the 2017-18 season, a year filled with high expectations and memorable moments for the team and its fans. This was a pivotal season, marked by the dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, and surrounded by a supporting cast aiming to make a deep playoff run. Understanding the composition of this team requires a closer look at each player, their roles, and their contributions throughout the season.

The 2017-18 Pelicans roster was constructed with the intention of maximizing the talents of their star players. Anthony Davis, already an established superstar, was the focal point of the offense and defense. His incredible athleticism, scoring ability, and shot-blocking prowess made him a nightly matchup nightmare for opponents. DeMarcus Cousins, acquired mid-season the previous year, brought a unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking from the center position. The combination of Davis and Cousins, often referred to as the “Twin Towers,” presented a formidable frontcourt that few teams could handle. Surrounding these two All-Stars was a collection of players designed to complement their skills and address the team’s needs.

Rajon Rondo, a seasoned veteran, was brought in to orchestrate the offense and provide leadership. His basketball IQ and passing ability were expected to elevate the play of Davis and Cousins, as well as the team’s perimeter shooters. Jrue Holiday, an excellent two-way guard, continued to be a key component of the Pelicans’ backcourt, providing scoring, defense, and playmaking. Players like E’Twaun Moore, Darius Miller, and Ian Clark offered valuable shooting and scoring off the bench, while Solomon Hill and Tony Allen were defensive-minded players tasked with guarding the opposition’s top players. The roster also included young talents like Frank Jackson and Cheick Diallo, who were developing their games and contributing in limited roles. Each player was carefully selected to fit into the team’s overall strategy and contribute to their goal of making a significant impact in the Western Conference. The blend of star power, veteran leadership, and complementary role players made the 2017-18 Pelicans a team to watch, full of potential and poised for a memorable season.

Key Players and Their Roles

The success of the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans hinged significantly on the performance and chemistry of its key players. Let's break down the roles and contributions of some of the most influential members of that year's squad.

Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis was, without a doubt, the centerpiece of the Pelicans' roster. As a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate, Davis brought an unparalleled level of versatility and dominance to both ends of the court. His scoring ability was virtually unstoppable, whether he was posting up, facing the basket, or knocking down mid-range jumpers. Davis's athleticism allowed him to run the floor with ease, making him a constant threat in transition. Defensively, he was a shot-blocking extraordinaire, deterring opponents from attacking the basket and altering countless shots. His length, agility, and timing made him one of the league's premier rim protectors. Beyond his individual skills, Davis's presence elevated the play of his teammates, creating opportunities for them to score and defend more effectively. His leadership, both on and off the court, was crucial to the team's success, as he set the tone with his work ethic and competitive spirit. The Pelicans' fortunes were closely tied to Davis's performance, and he consistently delivered at an elite level.

DeMarcus Cousins

DeMarcus Cousins was acquired to form a dominant frontcourt pairing with Anthony Davis, and for a significant portion of the season, the duo lived up to the hype. Cousins brought a unique blend of size, skill, and aggression to the center position. He was a powerful scorer in the post, capable of overpowering defenders with his strength and footwork. He also possessed a reliable jump shot, extending his range to the three-point line and making him a difficult matchup for traditional centers. Cousins was a tenacious rebounder, securing possessions on both ends of the court. What set him apart was his playmaking ability; he was an excellent passer for a big man, capable of initiating the offense from the high post and finding open teammates with pinpoint passes. Defensively, Cousins was a physical presence, challenging shots and battling for position in the paint. His passion and intensity were infectious, energizing the team and igniting the crowd. Unfortunately, Cousins's season was cut short due to a torn Achilles tendon, a devastating injury that robbed the Pelicans of a key contributor and altered the course of their season.

Jrue Holiday

Jrue Holiday was a vital component of the Pelicans' backcourt, providing a steadying presence and two-way excellence. He was a versatile scorer, capable of attacking the basket, hitting pull-up jumpers, and knocking down three-pointers. Holiday's athleticism and quickness made him a difficult matchup for opposing guards. Defensively, he was a tenacious defender, hounding opponents with his relentless pressure and quick hands. He was also an excellent playmaker, capable of running the offense and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. Holiday's basketball IQ and decision-making were invaluable, as he consistently made smart plays and avoided costly turnovers. His leadership and composure were essential, especially in close games. Holiday's contributions often went unnoticed, but his impact on both ends of the court was undeniable, making him an indispensable member of the Pelicans' roster. His ability to consistently perform at a high level made him a reliable and valuable asset to the team.

Rajon Rondo

Rajon Rondo brought veteran leadership and playmaking wizardry to the Pelicans' offense. Known for his exceptional court vision and passing skills, Rondo was the primary facilitator, orchestrating the team's attack and finding open teammates with creative passes. While his scoring was not his primary focus, Rondo was capable of knocking down open shots and attacking the basket when necessary. Defensively, he used his intelligence and anticipation to disrupt opponents and create turnovers. Rondo's experience and basketball IQ were invaluable, especially in guiding the team's young players and making adjustments on the fly. His presence in the locker room provided a calming influence and a sense of stability. While Rondo's individual statistics may not have always jumped off the page, his impact on the team's overall performance was significant, as he elevated the play of his teammates and helped the Pelicans achieve their offensive goals. His ability to control the tempo and make smart decisions made him a key addition to the roster.

Season Highlights and Challenges

The 2017-18 season for the New Orleans Pelicans was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, marked by significant achievements and considerable challenges. Let's delve into some of the key moments and obstacles that defined their journey.

Promising Start and the Twin Towers Era

The season began with considerable excitement as the Pelicans looked to capitalize on the potential of the Anthony Davis-DeMarcus Cousins pairing. The early part of the season saw flashes of brilliance, with the