New Orleans Pelicans Roster 2017-18: A Deep Dive

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a fascinating mix of talent, potential, and ultimately, a team that made a significant push in the Western Conference. For fans looking back, or those just curious about the team's composition during that season, let's take a detailed look at the players, coaching staff, and the overall impact they had. Understanding the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18 requires a deep dive into each player's contribution and how they fit into the grand scheme of the season. The Pelicans aimed to make a splash, and their roster construction was critical to their aspirations.

The Star Duo: Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins

At the heart of the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18 was the dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. Anthony Davis, already an established superstar, continued to showcase his dominance on both ends of the court. His incredible athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess made him a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate. During the 2017-18 season, Davis averaged impressive stats, solidifying his place among the league's elite. His presence alone made the Pelicans a formidable team, capable of competing against the best.

DeMarcus Cousins, acquired in a mid-season trade the previous year, brought a unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking to the frontcourt. Cousins's versatility allowed the Pelicans to run a more diverse offense, and his physicality added toughness to the team. Before his unfortunate Achilles injury, Cousins was having an outstanding season, demonstrating why he was considered one of the premier centers in the NBA. The pairing of Davis and Cousins created matchup nightmares for opposing teams, as their combined skill sets were incredibly difficult to contain.

The expectations were sky-high with Davis and Cousins leading the charge. Their on-court chemistry was developing, and the Pelicans were starting to realize their potential. Unfortunately, Cousins's season-ending injury in January 2018 significantly altered the team's trajectory. Despite this setback, Davis stepped up his game even further, carrying the team through the remainder of the regular season and into the playoffs. The Davis-Cousins experiment, though cut short, remains a memorable chapter in Pelicans history, showcasing the tantalizing possibilities of a dominant twin-tower lineup.

Supporting Cast: Key Role Players

Beyond the star power of Davis and Cousins, the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18 featured a number of crucial role players who contributed significantly to the team's success. These players provided depth, versatility, and the necessary complementary skills to support the team's primary scorers. Let's examine some of the key contributors:

• Jrue Holiday: A vital part of the Pelicans' backcourt, Jrue Holiday brought a combination of scoring, playmaking, and tenacious defense. Holiday's ability to guard multiple positions and create opportunities for his teammates made him an invaluable asset. His performance during the 2017-18 season was exceptional, as he consistently delivered on both ends of the court, solidifying his status as one of the league's premier two-way guards.
• Rajon Rondo: Known for his high basketball IQ and exceptional passing skills, Rajon Rondo joined the Pelicans and immediately made an impact as the team's floor general. Rondo's ability to orchestrate the offense, find open teammates, and control the tempo of the game was instrumental in the Pelicans' success. His playoff performance, in particular, was remarkable, as he showcased his experience and leadership, guiding the team to a first-round series victory.
• E'Twaun Moore: A reliable and efficient scorer, E'Twaun Moore provided valuable offensive support off the bench. Moore's ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc and create his own offense made him a valuable asset. His consistency and dependability were crucial for the Pelicans, as he consistently delivered quality minutes and scoring.
• Darius Miller: Darius Miller provided valuable three-point shooting and floor spacing, which was essential for the Pelicans' offensive system. Miller's ability to stretch the floor and knock down open shots made him a reliable option off the bench. His presence allowed the Pelicans to maintain offensive balance and create opportunities for Davis and other scorers.

These role players complemented the star duo and provided the necessary depth for a successful season. Their contributions were essential to the team's overall performance, highlighting the importance of a well-rounded roster.

Coaching Staff and Strategy

The coaching staff, led by head coach Alvin Gentry, played a crucial role in shaping the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18 and guiding the team's strategy. Gentry's offensive system emphasized pace, spacing, and ball movement, which allowed the Pelicans to maximize their offensive potential. The coaching staff's ability to adapt and make adjustments throughout the season was critical to the team's success.

Gentry's strategy focused on utilizing the strengths of Davis and Cousins, creating opportunities for them to score and dominate the paint. The coaching staff also emphasized the importance of defense, implementing schemes to limit opponents' scoring opportunities and protect the rim. The coaching staff's ability to integrate new players into the system and develop a cohesive team identity was essential for the Pelicans' success.

The coaching staff also focused on player development, helping young players improve their skills and contribute to the team's success. Their guidance and mentorship were invaluable for the team's growth and development, ensuring that the Pelicans were always prepared to compete at a high level.

Season Highlights and Playoff Run

The 2017-18 season was filled with memorable moments for the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18. Despite the setback of Cousins's injury, the team rallied together and finished the regular season with a strong record, securing a playoff berth. Anthony Davis's dominant performance in the absence of Cousins was a major highlight, as he carried the team and solidified his status as one of the league's best players.

In the playoffs, the Pelicans faced the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round. Led by Davis, Holiday, and Rondo, the Pelicans swept the Trail Blazers in four games, showcasing their dominance and determination. Rondo's exceptional playmaking and leadership were particularly noteworthy, as he controlled the tempo of the series and guided the team to victory. The Pelicans' first-round sweep was a testament to their talent, chemistry, and coaching.

In the second round, the Pelicans faced the Golden State Warriors, the defending NBA champions. Despite a valiant effort, the Pelicans were ultimately defeated by the Warriors. However, the series provided valuable experience for the team and highlighted their potential for future success. The Pelicans' playoff run was a significant achievement, demonstrating their ability to compete against the league's best teams and making a statement about their future aspirations.

Impact and Legacy

The New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18 left a lasting impact on the franchise and its fans. The team's success during that season brought excitement and optimism to New Orleans, and the performances of Davis, Cousins, Holiday, and Rondo created lasting memories. The team's playoff run demonstrated their potential and set the stage for future success.

The Davis-Cousins era, though short-lived, remains a memorable chapter in Pelicans history. The pairing of two dominant big men created a unique and exciting dynamic, and their on-court chemistry was a joy to watch. The team's success during that season helped to solidify the Pelicans' place in the NBA landscape and attract new fans to the franchise.

The legacy of the 2017-18 Pelicans roster extends beyond the court. The team's commitment to the community and their engagement with fans created a strong connection with the city of New Orleans. The players and coaches embraced the local culture and became beloved figures in the community. Their impact will be remembered for years to come, as they helped to revitalize the Pelicans franchise and inspire a new generation of basketball fans.

In conclusion, the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18 was a special group of players who achieved significant success and left a lasting impact on the franchise. Their talent, chemistry, and determination made them a formidable team, and their playoff run was a testament to their potential. The memories and moments created during that season will be cherished by Pelicans fans for years to come, solidifying the legacy of the 2017-18 team.