New Orleans Pelicans 2017: A Look Back At The Roster

Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the New Orleans Pelicans 2017 roster. This was a fascinating period for the team, marked by both promise and challenges. Understanding the composition of this roster helps us appreciate the team's journey and the evolution of its players. So, buckle up as we dive deep into the names, stats, and stories that defined the Pelicans in 2017.

The Core Players

The 2017 Pelicans roster featured a blend of established stars and emerging talents. At the heart of the team were two dominant big men: Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. Anthony Davis, already a household name, continued to showcase his incredible versatility and scoring prowess. His ability to score inside and out, coupled with his defensive presence, made him a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate. Davis was the cornerstone of the franchise, and the team's success heavily relied on his performance.

DeMarcus Cousins, acquired midway through the 2016-2017 season, formed a formidable frontcourt partnership with Davis. Cousins brought a unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking to the Pelicans. His arrival created high expectations, as the team hoped the twin towers could lead them to playoff contention. The chemistry between Davis and Cousins was a work in progress, but their combined talent was undeniable. Alvin Gentry, the head coach at the time, faced the challenge of integrating these two superstars into a cohesive unit.

Beyond Davis and Cousins, the roster included valuable contributors such as Jrue Holiday. Jrue Holiday was the primary point guard, known for his scoring, defense, and playmaking abilities. Holiday's presence provided stability and leadership in the backcourt. His ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates was crucial to the team's offensive flow. Holiday's defensive tenacity also made him a key asset on the other end of the court. The Pelicans relied on Holiday to be a consistent performer and a leader on and off the court.

Key Role Players

Surrounding the star trio were several key role players who contributed in various ways. Players like E'Twaun Moore provided scoring and shooting off the bench. Moore was a reliable scorer who could get hot from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor was valuable in creating space for Davis and Cousins to operate inside. Moore's consistency and work ethic made him a trusted option for Coach Gentry.

Another important role player was Solomon Hill, who brought defensive versatility and toughness to the team. Solomon Hill was known for his ability to guard multiple positions and his willingness to do the dirty work. His defensive presence was particularly valuable against opposing teams' top scorers. Hill's toughness and determination set a tone for the team, and he was a respected voice in the locker room.

The roster also included players like Dante Cunningham, who provided floor spacing and defensive versatility. Cunningham was a reliable shooter who could knock down open shots. His ability to stretch the floor helped create driving lanes for the team's guards and big men. Cunningham's defensive versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset on both ends of the court.

Bench Depth and Emerging Talents

The Pelicans' bench featured a mix of veterans and young players looking to make their mark. Players like Terrence Jones provided scoring and rebounding off the bench. Jones was a high-energy player who could score in a variety of ways. His athleticism and aggressiveness made him a valuable addition to the team's second unit. Jones's ability to create scoring opportunities helped the Pelicans maintain their offensive momentum when the starters were resting.

Cheick Diallo, a young and athletic big man, showed flashes of potential. Diallo was raw but possessed tremendous athleticism and energy. His rebounding and shot-blocking abilities were intriguing, and the team hoped he could develop into a valuable contributor down the road. Diallo's work ethic and willingness to learn made him a promising prospect for the Pelicans.

Other players on the roster included Tim Frazier, who provided playmaking and scoring off the bench, and Quinn Cook, who showcased his shooting ability in limited minutes. Frazier was a capable backup point guard who could run the offense and create opportunities for his teammates. Cook was a sharpshooter who could knock down shots from beyond the arc. These players added depth to the roster and provided Coach Gentry with options depending on the game situation.

Coaching and Strategy

The New Orleans Pelicans were coached by Alvin Gentry in 2017. Gentry was known for his offensive-minded approach and his ability to develop young players. His challenge was to integrate the talents of Davis, Cousins, and Holiday into a cohesive unit. Gentry's offensive system emphasized pace and space, aiming to create open looks for the team's shooters and driving lanes for the big men. His coaching staff worked to implement strategies that would maximize the team's strengths and minimize its weaknesses.

Gentry's coaching philosophy focused on empowering players and creating a positive team environment. He encouraged his players to take risks and play with confidence. Gentry's ability to connect with his players helped foster a sense of camaraderie and trust within the team. His leadership was crucial in navigating the challenges of integrating new players and managing expectations.

Season Performance and Key Moments

The 2016-2017 season was a rollercoaster ride for the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite the presence of Davis and Cousins, the team struggled to find consistency. Injuries and chemistry issues hampered their progress. The Pelicans finished the season with a record of 34-48, missing the playoffs. While the record was disappointing, there were moments of brilliance and glimpses of what the team could become.

One of the key moments of the season was the acquisition of DeMarcus Cousins. The trade for Cousins created a buzz around the team and raised expectations for a playoff push. While the Davis-Cousins pairing showed promise, it took time for them to develop chemistry. The team faced challenges adjusting to the new dynamic, but the potential was evident.

Another memorable moment was Anthony Davis's consistent dominance. Davis continued to showcase his incredible talent, putting up impressive numbers and leading the team on both ends of the court. His performances were a bright spot in an otherwise challenging season. Davis's ability to score, rebound, and defend made him one of the league's most valuable players.

Off-Season Changes and Future Outlook

The off-season following the 2016-2017 season brought significant changes to the New Orleans Pelicans roster. The team looked to build around Davis and Cousins, aiming to improve their supporting cast and address their weaknesses. The Pelicans made moves to add shooting and defensive depth, hoping to create a more balanced and competitive team.

One of the key moves was re-signing Jrue Holiday to a long-term contract. Holiday's return provided stability and leadership in the backcourt. The Pelicans recognized Holiday's value as a scorer, defender, and playmaker, and they were committed to keeping him as a cornerstone of the franchise.

The Pelicans also made additions to their bench, bringing in players who could provide scoring, rebounding, and defensive versatility. The goal was to create a deeper and more balanced roster that could compete with the top teams in the league. The Pelicans were determined to improve their playoff chances and make a run at the championship.

The 2017 New Orleans Pelicans roster, while not ultimately achieving its highest aspirations, remains a significant chapter in the team's history. The blend of star power and emerging talent provided moments of excitement and promise. As we reflect on this roster, we gain a deeper appreciation for the players, coaches, and fans who contributed to the Pelicans' journey. The lessons learned and the memories created continue to shape the team's identity and inspire future generations of Pelicans players.