New Orleans Pelicans 2017: A Look Back At The Roster

by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the New Orleans Pelicans roster from 2017. This was an interesting time for the franchise, filled with hopes and expectations. Understanding the composition of the team during that period can offer insights into the Pelicans' trajectory and how they've evolved since then. So, buckle up as we dive deep into the players, coaching staff, and key moments that defined the 2017 New Orleans Pelicans.

The Star Duo: Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins

The 2017 Pelicans roster was undoubtedly highlighted by the formidable duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. These two dominant big men were expected to wreak havoc on opposing defenses and lead the Pelicans to new heights. Anthony Davis, already an established superstar, was in his prime, showcasing his incredible versatility, scoring ability, and defensive prowess.

Davis, also known as "The Brow," was the centerpiece of the Pelicans' offense. His ability to score both inside and outside, coupled with his shot-blocking and rebounding skills, made him a nightmare matchup for any team. In 2017, Davis continued to elevate his game, averaging impressive numbers and earning All-Star honors. His presence alone made the Pelicans a team to watch.

DeMarcus Cousins, acquired mid-season, was brought in to complement Davis and form one of the most talented frontcourts in the NBA. Cousins, a bruising center with exceptional passing skills and a knack for scoring, added another dimension to the Pelicans' attack. The idea was simple: surround these two stars with complementary pieces and watch them dominate. The potential was undeniable, and fans were eager to see how this experiment would unfold.

However, the partnership between Davis and Cousins was not without its challenges. Integrating two ball-dominant players into a cohesive unit required adjustments and sacrifices. There were moments of brilliance, where the two big men showcased their unparalleled chemistry, but consistency remained an elusive goal. Injuries, unfortunately, also played a significant role in limiting their time together on the court. Despite the challenges, the pairing of Davis and Cousins was a captivating storyline that kept Pelicans fans engaged throughout the 2017 season.

Supporting Cast and Key Contributors

Beyond Davis and Cousins, the 2017 Pelicans roster featured a supporting cast of players who played crucial roles in the team's performance. These guys brought different skills and experience to the table, contributing to the overall dynamic of the team. Let's take a closer look at some of the key contributors:

  • Jrue Holiday: A versatile guard known for his scoring, playmaking, and defensive abilities, Jrue Holiday was an integral part of the Pelicans' backcourt. His ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates, coupled with his tenacity on the defensive end, made him a valuable asset. Holiday's presence provided a steady hand and a calming influence on the team.
  • E'Twaun Moore: A reliable shooter and scorer, E'Twaun Moore provided valuable offensive firepower off the bench. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc helped space the floor and create driving lanes for Davis and Cousins. Moore's consistency and work ethic made him a trusted option in crucial moments.
  • Solomon Hill: A defensive-minded forward, Solomon Hill brought toughness and versatility to the Pelicans' frontcourt. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on the boards made him a valuable role player. Hill's defensive presence helped solidify the team's interior defense.
  • Rajon Rondo: Though he joined the team later, Rajon Rondo's veteran leadership and playmaking skills were a significant addition. His ability to distribute the ball and orchestrate the offense helped unlock the full potential of Davis and Cousins. Rondo's basketball IQ and experience proved invaluable in guiding the team.

These players, along with others like Dante Cunningham, Alexis Ajinca, and Cheick Diallo, formed a supporting cast that complemented the star power of Davis and Cousins. Each player brought unique skills and contributed to the team's overall performance. While the Pelicans faced challenges in achieving consistent success, the contributions of these role players were essential to their efforts.

Coaching Staff and Team Strategy

The coaching staff, led by head coach Alvin Gentry, played a crucial role in shaping the team's strategy and development. Gentry's offensive system emphasized pace and space, aiming to maximize the scoring potential of Davis and Cousins. The goal was to create an environment where the two big men could thrive while also incorporating the skills of the supporting cast.

The coaching staff also focused on improving the team's defense, recognizing the importance of stopping opponents to achieve success. Efforts were made to solidify the team's interior defense and improve their ability to guard the perimeter. While the Pelicans showed flashes of defensive prowess, consistency remained a challenge.

Team strategy revolved around leveraging the strengths of Davis and Cousins. The coaching staff experimented with different offensive sets and defensive schemes to find the optimal balance. The goal was to create a system that allowed the two stars to dominate while also incorporating the skills of the supporting cast. However, injuries and inconsistent play often disrupted the team's plans.

Season Highlights and Challenges

The 2017 season was a rollercoaster ride for the New Orleans Pelicans, filled with both exhilarating highs and frustrating lows. The team showcased moments of brilliance, demonstrating their potential to compete with the league's elite. However, inconsistency and injuries plagued their progress, preventing them from reaching their full potential.

Some of the season's highlights included impressive wins against top teams, showcasing the Pelicans' ability to rise to the occasion. The chemistry between Davis and Cousins was evident in certain games, as they dominated opponents with their scoring and rebounding prowess. The contributions of the supporting cast also played a crucial role in these victories.

However, the Pelicans also faced significant challenges throughout the season. Injuries to key players, including Cousins' devastating Achilles injury, derailed their momentum and forced them to make adjustments. Inconsistent play, particularly on the defensive end, also hampered their progress. Despite their efforts, the Pelicans ultimately fell short of their playoff aspirations.

Impact and Legacy

The 2017 New Orleans Pelicans roster, while not ultimately achieving championship success, left a lasting impact on the franchise and its fans. The pairing of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins created excitement and anticipation, showcasing the potential of a dominant frontcourt. The contributions of the supporting cast and the efforts of the coaching staff also played a significant role in shaping the team's identity.

While the partnership between Davis and Cousins was ultimately cut short, it provided a glimpse of what could have been. The lessons learned from that season helped inform the Pelicans' future decisions and strategies. The development of players like Jrue Holiday and E'Twaun Moore also contributed to the team's long-term success.

The 2017 Pelicans roster serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges of building a successful NBA team. It highlights the importance of star power, supporting cast contributions, coaching strategy, and overall team chemistry. While the team may not have achieved its ultimate goals, it left an indelible mark on the Pelicans' history.

Where Are They Now?

It's always interesting to see where the players from that 2017 Pelicans roster ended up. Anthony Davis, of course, was later traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won an NBA championship. DeMarcus Cousins battled injuries and bounced around several teams before finding a role as a veteran presence. Jrue Holiday was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he also won a championship. Many of the other players from that roster have continued their careers in the NBA or overseas, each forging their own unique path.

The coaching staff has also moved on to various roles within the NBA and beyond. Alvin Gentry continued to coach in the league, bringing his offensive expertise to different teams. Other members of the coaching staff have taken on new challenges and opportunities, contributing to the basketball world in various ways.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a look back at the 2017 New Orleans Pelicans roster. It was a team filled with talent and potential, but also one that faced its share of challenges. The pairing of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins was a captivating experiment, and the contributions of the supporting cast were essential to the team's efforts. While the Pelicans may not have reached their ultimate goals that season, the memories and lessons learned from that era continue to resonate with fans and shape the franchise's future. It was a unique chapter in Pelicans history, one worth remembering and reflecting upon. What a ride, right guys?