New Orleans Pelicans 2017 Roster: A Deep Dive

Let's take a trip down memory lane and dissect the New Orleans Pelicans 2017 roster. This was a fascinating year for the Pelicans, marked by high expectations and a blend of established stars and emerging talent. We'll explore the key players, analyze their contributions, and reflect on the overall performance of the team. So, buckle up, basketball fans, as we dive into the details of the 2017 Pelicans squad!

The Stars of the Show

When you think of the 2017 Pelicans, two names immediately come to mind: Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. These two behemoths formed one of the most dominant frontcourts in the NBA, and their partnership generated a ton of buzz around the league.

• Anthony Davis, aka "The Brow," was already an established superstar. In 2017, he continued his reign of terror, showcasing his incredible athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess. Davis was the undisputed leader of the team, and his performance dictated the Pelicans' success on many nights. His ability to score inside and out, combined with his shot-blocking and rebounding skills, made him a nightmare matchup for any opponent. Did you know that during the 2016-2017 season, Anthony Davis averaged 28.0 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game? These stats highlight his all-around dominance and solidify his place as one of the league's elite players.

• DeMarcus Cousins, or "Boogie," arrived in New Orleans via a mid-season trade, adding another dimension to the Pelicans' frontcourt. Cousins brought a unique blend of size, skill, and aggression. He was a dominant scorer, a capable rebounder, and a surprisingly good passer for his size. The idea of pairing Davis and Cousins was tantalizing, promising a frontcourt that could overwhelm opponents with their combined talent and physicality. However, integrating two such high-usage players into a cohesive system proved to be a challenge, and the Pelicans had to figure out how to maximize their potential together. The chemistry between Davis and Cousins was a work in progress, but the flashes of brilliance were undeniable, offering a glimpse of what could be.

Beyond Davis and Cousins, the Pelicans had a supporting cast of players who played crucial roles in the team's success. Jrue Holiday, for example, was a steadying presence in the backcourt, providing scoring, playmaking, and defense. He was a reliable ball-handler and a capable scorer, often taking on tough defensive assignments. The contributions of these supporting players were essential to the Pelicans' overall performance, providing balance and depth to the roster. Each player brought a unique skill set to the table, contributing to the team's overall strategy and helping to create a competitive and dynamic squad.

The Supporting Cast

Beyond the star power, the 2017 Pelicans roster featured a number of valuable role players who contributed to the team's overall success. These guys weren't always in the spotlight, but their contributions were essential to the team's performance.

• Jrue Holiday was a key component of the Pelicans' backcourt. A versatile guard, Holiday provided scoring, playmaking, and solid defense. His ability to handle the ball, create opportunities for his teammates, and guard multiple positions made him an invaluable asset. Holiday's consistency and reliability were crucial to the team's stability.

• E'Twaun Moore provided valuable scoring and shooting off the bench. His ability to knock down open shots and create his own offense helped to space the floor and provide a spark when the team needed it. Moore's offensive contributions were particularly important in supporting the team's stars.

• Rajon Rondo joined the team later in the year, bringing his playmaking and veteran leadership to the table. Rondo's ability to distribute the ball and orchestrate the offense helped to elevate the play of his teammates. His experience and basketball IQ were invaluable assets in guiding the team.

• Dante Cunningham was a versatile forward who provided solid defense and rebounding. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on the boards made him a valuable role player. Cunningham's defensive presence and versatility were important in solidifying the team's defense.

These players, along with others like Terrence Jones, Alexis Ajinca, and Omer Asik, formed a solid supporting cast that complemented the team's star players. Their contributions, while often overlooked, were crucial to the Pelicans' overall performance and success.

Season Highlights and Challenges

The 2016-2017 season was a rollercoaster for the New Orleans Pelicans, filled with moments of brilliance and periods of frustration. The arrival of DeMarcus Cousins midway through the season injected excitement and optimism into the team, raising expectations for a playoff push. However, integrating Cousins into the existing framework proved to be a complex task, and the team faced challenges in finding the right balance and chemistry. Despite the presence of two dominant big men in Davis and Cousins, the Pelicans struggled with consistency and often failed to close out games.

One of the season's highlights was the electrifying performance of Davis and Cousins when they clicked. Their combined scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence were a sight to behold, showcasing their potential to dominate the league. There were games where they seemed unstoppable, overwhelming opponents with their sheer talent and physicality. These glimpses of brilliance fueled hope that the Pelicans could become a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference.

However, the Pelicans also faced significant challenges throughout the season. Injuries to key players disrupted the team's rhythm and forced them to make adjustments on the fly. The lack of consistent outside shooting was a persistent issue, making it difficult for the Pelicans to space the floor and create open looks for their star players. Opponents often packed the paint, making it challenging for Davis and Cousins to operate effectively. The team's defensive struggles were also a concern, as they often struggled to contain opposing offenses.

Despite the challenges, the Pelicans remained competitive and fought hard for a playoff spot. They had stretches of impressive play, demonstrating their potential to compete with the league's best teams. However, they ultimately fell short of their goal, finishing with a record that left them outside the playoff picture. The season served as a learning experience for the team, highlighting the areas where they needed to improve in order to take the next step. It also underscored the importance of building a cohesive unit with consistent outside shooting, solid defense, and depth.

What Happened Next?

Following the 2016-2017 season, the Pelicans faced a critical offseason with important decisions to make about the future of the team. The front office had to assess the success of the Davis-Cousins pairing and determine whether to invest further in that duo or explore other options. The team also needed to address its weaknesses, such as the lack of consistent outside shooting and defensive struggles.

Unfortunately, the Davis-Cousins era in New Orleans was cut short when Cousins suffered a torn Achilles tendon in January 2018. This devastating injury not only derailed the Pelicans' season but also altered the trajectory of Cousins' career. The injury raised questions about his long-term health and effectiveness, making it uncertain whether he would ever regain his pre-injury form. It was a significant blow to the Pelicans, who had invested heavily in building a team around Davis and Cousins.

In the subsequent years, the Pelicans underwent significant changes, including trading Anthony Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019. This trade marked the end of an era in New Orleans, ushering in a new chapter with a focus on building around young talent acquired in the Davis trade, such as Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. The Pelicans have since been focused on developing their young core and building a sustainable contender for the future.

The 2017 season, despite its ups and downs, remains a significant chapter in Pelicans history. It was a season of high expectations, marked by the arrival of DeMarcus Cousins and the tantalizing prospect of a dominant frontcourt pairing. While the team ultimately fell short of its goals, the season provided valuable lessons and insights that have shaped the Pelicans' trajectory in the years since. It serves as a reminder of the challenges of building a championship contender and the importance of adaptability, resilience, and strategic decision-making.

Final Thoughts

The 2017 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a fascinating mix of talent and potential. While the team didn't achieve all its goals, it was a memorable season filled with exciting moments and valuable lessons. The pairing of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins created a buzz around the league, and the supporting cast provided a solid foundation. Though the experiment was ultimately short-lived, it remains a captivating chapter in Pelicans history. What do you guys think? Was this team underrated, or did they simply underperform? Let's discuss!