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 time for the franchise, marked by high expectations and a team that, on paper, looked like it could make some serious noise in the Western Conference. We'll break down the key players, analyze their roles, and see how they contributed (or didn't!) to the team's overall performance.

The Star Duo: Davis and Cousins

The 2017 Pelicans were built around two towering figures: Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. The idea of pairing these two dominant big men sent shivers down the spines of opposing coaches. Anthony Davis, already an established superstar, was expected to carry the offensive load with his incredible scoring ability, rim protection, and versatility. He was the undisputed franchise cornerstone, and the hope was that Cousins would complement him perfectly.

DeMarcus Cousins, acquired mid-season from the Sacramento Kings, brought a unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking to the table. While incredibly talented, Cousins also came with a reputation for being temperamental. The Pelicans brass hoped that a change of scenery and the chance to compete for a championship would unlock his full potential and keep him focused. The initial returns were promising, with flashes of brilliance showcasing the immense potential of the Davis-Cousins pairing. The duo presented matchup nightmares for opposing teams, forcing them to adjust their defensive schemes and often leaving them scrambling to contain the Pelicans' imposing frontcourt. However, chemistry and consistency proved to be ongoing challenges. Injuries, particularly the devastating Achilles injury suffered by Cousins in early 2018, ultimately derailed the experiment and prevented us from truly seeing how far this duo could have taken the Pelicans. Nevertheless, the glimpses of dominance were enough to tantalize fans and leave them wondering what could have been. The presence of Davis and Cousins also opened up opportunities for other players on the roster. Opposing defenses were forced to focus so much attention on the two big men that it created space and scoring chances for the Pelicans' guards and wings. This dynamic was a key component of the team's offensive strategy, and when Davis and Cousins were both on their game, the Pelicans were a difficult team to stop.

Supporting Cast: Role Players and Specialists

Beyond Davis and Cousins, the 2017 Pelicans roster featured a collection of role players and specialists tasked with complementing the star duo. Jrue Holiday, a versatile guard with a knack for scoring and defense, was a key component of the team's backcourt. His ability to create his own shot, distribute the ball, and defend multiple positions made him an invaluable asset. Players like E'Twaun Moore, Dante Cunningham, and Solomon Hill provided valuable contributions on both ends of the court. Moore was a reliable scorer and shooter, while Cunningham and Hill brought toughness and defensive versatility. These players were essential in providing the depth and balance needed to compete in the demanding Western Conference. While they may not have possessed the star power of Davis and Cousins, their contributions were crucial to the team's overall success.

The Pelicans also had players like Rajon Rondo who joined the team later but played a crucial role in facilitating the offense and providing veteran leadership. His playmaking skills and basketball IQ were a perfect fit for the Pelicans' system, and he helped to unlock the full potential of Davis and Cousins. Rondo's ability to distribute the ball and create easy scoring opportunities for his teammates made him an integral part of the team's success. The team's success hinged not only on the individual brilliance of its stars but also on the collective effort of its supporting cast.

Coaching and Strategy

Alvin Gentry served as the head coach of the Pelicans during the 2017 season. Gentry, known for his offensive-minded approach, aimed to create a system that would maximize the potential of Davis and Cousins while also incorporating the skills of the team's other players. The coaching staff emphasized pace and space, encouraging the Pelicans to push the ball in transition and create open looks from beyond the arc. Defensively, the Pelicans focused on utilizing Davis' rim protection and Holiday's perimeter defense to disrupt opposing offenses. Gentry's coaching style was generally well-received by the players, and he was praised for his ability to connect with them on a personal level. However, some critics questioned his tactical decisions and his ability to make adjustments during games. The Pelicans' performance under Gentry was often inconsistent, and the team struggled to maintain a high level of play for extended periods. Despite the challenges, Gentry remained committed to his vision and continued to work towards building a winning culture in New Orleans. His leadership and guidance were essential in navigating the ups and downs of the season, and he played a key role in fostering a positive team environment.

Season Performance and Key Moments

The 2017 season was a rollercoaster ride for the Pelicans. The team showed flashes of brilliance, but inconsistency plagued them throughout the year. The acquisition of Cousins was a major turning point, but it took time for the team to integrate him into the system. Injuries also played a significant role, with several key players missing time due to various ailments. Despite the challenges, the Pelicans managed to make a push for the playoffs, but ultimately fell short of their goal. There were several memorable moments throughout the season, including dominant performances by Davis and Cousins, thrilling victories over top teams, and heartbreaking losses in close games. These moments showcased the team's potential but also highlighted its flaws. The Pelicans' season was a testament to the unpredictable nature of the NBA and the challenges of building a winning team. The team's performance was a reflection of the talent on the roster, the coaching strategies employed, and the overall chemistry of the group. While the Pelicans ultimately fell short of their championship aspirations, the 2017 season was a valuable learning experience for the franchise.

What Happened Next?

The Pelicans' vision of building a dynasty around Davis and Cousins was unfortunately short-lived. As mentioned earlier, Cousins suffered a devastating Achilles injury that sidelined him for an extended period and ultimately led to him signing with the Golden State Warriors in free agency. Davis remained in New Orleans for a few more seasons, but the team struggled to replicate the success they had hoped for. Eventually, Davis was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he teamed up with LeBron James to win an NBA championship. The Pelicans, meanwhile, embarked on a new era, drafting Zion Williamson with the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft and hoping to build a contender around him. The 2017 season remains a fascinating chapter in Pelicans history, a reminder of the potential that existed and the challenges that ultimately prevented the team from reaching its full potential. The team's journey serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of chemistry, health, and perseverance in the pursuit of championship glory. The legacy of the 2017 Pelicans lives on, reminding fans of the excitement and hope that once surrounded the franchise.

The Full Roster

To provide a complete picture, here’s a look at the full roster of the 2017 New Orleans Pelicans:

• Anthony Davis: The superstar power forward/center and focal point of the team.
• DeMarcus Cousins: The dominant center acquired to pair with Davis.
• Jrue Holiday: The versatile guard known for his scoring and defense.
• E'Twaun Moore: A reliable scorer and shooter off the bench.
• Dante Cunningham: A tough and versatile defender.
• Solomon Hill: Another defensive-minded wing player.
• Langston Galloway: A scoring guard who provided instant offense.
• Terrence Jones: A versatile forward who added depth.
• Quincy Pondexter: A veteran wing player (though injuries limited his playing time).
• Alexis Ajinca: A backup center who provided size and rebounding.
• Cheick Diallo: A young and athletic forward with potential.
• Tim Frazier: A point guard who provided playmaking.
• Reggie Williams: A veteran guard who provided scoring.

This roster, while talented, ultimately fell short of its championship aspirations. Injuries and chemistry issues hampered the team's progress, preventing them from reaching their full potential. However, the 2017 Pelicans remain a memorable team in franchise history, a testament to the excitement and hope that can surround a team with star power and potential.

In conclusion, the 2017 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a unique blend of talent and potential. While the team ultimately didn't achieve its championship goals, it provided fans with plenty of memorable moments and a glimpse of what could have been. The duo of Davis and Cousins was a force to be reckoned with, and the supporting cast provided valuable contributions. The season serves as a reminder of the challenges of building a winning team and the importance of factors such as chemistry, health, and coaching. The legacy of the 2017 Pelicans lives on, reminding fans of the excitement and hope that once surrounded the franchise.