New Orleans Pelicans 2017-18 Roster: A Deep Dive

The 2017-18 NBA season was a memorable one for the New Orleans Pelicans. Led by the dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, the team showcased a blend of talent and determination that captivated fans. This article delves into the specifics of the New Orleans Pelicans' roster from that season, exploring the key players, their roles, and the overall impact they had on the team's performance. Let's jump into the specifics of what made this team so interesting!

The Star Power: Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins

At the heart of the Pelicans' 2017-18 campaign were Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. Davis, already an established superstar, continued to elevate his game, showcasing his incredible versatility as a scorer, rebounder, and shot-blocker. His ability to dominate on both ends of the court made him a perennial MVP candidate. Davis's impact extended beyond the stat sheet, as his presence alone altered opponents' game plans and created opportunities for his teammates.

DeMarcus Cousins, acquired in a mid-season trade the previous year, provided the Pelicans with another dominant force in the frontcourt. Cousins's skill set was unique for a center, as he possessed excellent passing skills, a reliable outside shot, and a physical presence in the paint. The combination of Davis and Cousins created matchup nightmares for opposing teams, forcing them to adjust their defensive schemes and allocate extra resources to contain their combined scoring prowess. The 'Twin Towers' approach brought a level of excitement and anticipation to every Pelicans game, as fans eagerly awaited the duo's highlight-reel plays.

However, the Cousins era in New Orleans was unfortunately cut short due to injury. In late January 2018, Cousins suffered a torn Achilles tendon, which sidelined him for the remainder of the season and, ultimately, altered the trajectory of the team. Despite the setback, the Pelicans demonstrated resilience and found ways to remain competitive, showcasing the depth and adaptability of their roster. The injury to Cousins served as a stark reminder of the fragility of success in the NBA and the importance of having a well-rounded team capable of overcoming adversity.

Supporting Cast: Key Role Players

Beyond Davis and Cousins, the Pelicans' 2017-18 roster featured a collection of valuable role players who contributed to the team's success. Jrue Holiday, a talented and versatile guard, played a crucial role on both ends of the court. Holiday's scoring ability, playmaking skills, and defensive tenacity made him an indispensable part of the Pelicans' lineup. His ability to guard multiple positions and create opportunities for his teammates made him a valuable asset.

Rajon Rondo, a seasoned veteran known for his exceptional passing and basketball IQ, joined the Pelicans and provided a steadying presence at the point guard position. Rondo's ability to orchestrate the offense, make smart decisions, and elevate the play of his teammates made him a perfect fit for the team's style of play. His experience and leadership were invaluable, especially in crucial moments of games.

E'Twaun Moore emerged as a reliable scoring threat and provided valuable floor spacing with his accurate outside shooting. Moore's ability to knock down open shots and make timely contributions made him a key role player off the bench. His consistency and efficiency helped the Pelicans maintain their offensive firepower even when their star players were double-teamed or faced tough defensive matchups.

Darius Miller, another sharpshooter, added depth and versatility to the Pelicans' roster. Miller's ability to stretch the floor with his long-range shooting and make smart plays made him a valuable asset in the team's offensive system. His presence on the court created more space for Davis and other players to operate, opening up driving lanes and scoring opportunities.

Tony Allen, a defensive specialist known for his tenacity and intensity, provided the Pelicans with a valuable defensive presence off the bench. Allen's ability to disrupt opponents' offenses and make life difficult for opposing scorers made him a valuable addition to the team. His defensive mindset and willingness to sacrifice his body for the team inspired his teammates and set the tone for the Pelicans' defensive effort.

Coaching and Strategy

Alvin Gentry served as the head coach of the Pelicans during the 2017-18 season. Gentry's offensive system, which emphasized pace, spacing, and ball movement, allowed the Pelicans to maximize their offensive potential. His ability to adapt his strategies to suit the strengths of his players and exploit opponents' weaknesses was a key factor in the team's success.

Gentry's coaching staff implemented defensive schemes that focused on containing opponents' penetration, protecting the paint, and forcing turnovers. The Pelicans' defensive intensity and commitment to team defense improved significantly throughout the season, making them a more formidable opponent.

The coaching staff also emphasized the importance of player development, providing opportunities for young players to improve their skills and contribute to the team's success. The development of players like E'Twaun Moore and Darius Miller was a testament to the coaching staff's ability to identify and nurture talent.

Season Highlights and Playoff Run

The 2017-18 season was filled with memorable moments for the New Orleans Pelicans. The team's high-octane offense, highlighted by the dynamic duo of Davis and Cousins, captivated fans and made them a must-watch team. Signature wins against top teams in the league showcased the Pelicans' potential and demonstrated their ability to compete with the best.

After Cousins's injury, the Pelicans faced adversity but rallied together to secure a playoff berth. The team's resilience and determination were evident as they navigated through a challenging stretch of games and ultimately clinched a spot in the Western Conference playoffs.

In the first round of the playoffs, the Pelicans faced the Portland Trail Blazers, a team led by Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. Despite being the underdog, the Pelicans delivered a stunning sweep of the Trail Blazers, showcasing their defensive prowess and offensive firepower. The series win was a testament to the Pelicans' growth and development throughout the season.

In the second round, the Pelicans faced the Golden State Warriors, the defending NBA champions. While the Pelicans fought valiantly, they ultimately fell short against the Warriors' superior talent and experience. Despite the loss, the Pelicans gained valuable playoff experience and demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level.

Final Thoughts

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a unique blend of talent, experience, and potential. Led by the star power of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, the team showcased a dynamic and exciting style of play. The contributions of key role players like Jrue Holiday, Rajon Rondo, and E'Twaun Moore were essential to the team's success.

While the injury to DeMarcus Cousins altered the trajectory of the season, the Pelicans demonstrated resilience and made a memorable playoff run. The team's performance provided fans with hope for the future and established the Pelicans as a team to watch in the Western Conference.

Overall, the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster left a lasting impression on fans and the NBA landscape. The team's blend of talent, determination, and teamwork made them a compelling story and a reminder of the unpredictable nature of professional basketball.

So there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster. It was a season of highs and lows, but one that ultimately showcased the potential of this exciting team. Whether you're a die-hard Pelicans fan or just a casual observer, hopefully, this article provided some insights into what made this team so special.