New Orleans Pelicans 2016 Roster: A Deep Dive

Let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we? Specifically, let's rewind to the 2016 New Orleans Pelicans roster. For Pelicans fans, the 2016 season was a mix of hope, disappointment, and what-ifs. Injuries plagued the team, and despite flashes of brilliance, they struggled to find consistency. But hey, that's sports, right? Now, let's dissect the roster and see what made this team tick.

The Key Players: Who Led the Charge?

When you think about the 2016 Pelicans, one name immediately springs to mind: Anthony Davis. AD was, without a doubt, the centerpiece of the team. In 2016, Davis was already establishing himself as one of the league's premier talents. His ability to score inside and out, block shots, and run the floor made him a nightly matchup nightmare for opponents. Beyond his raw talent, Davis carried the weight of expectation, as the franchise pinned its hopes on him to lead them to contention.

Surrounding Davis, the Pelicans had a mix of veterans and young players. Jrue Holiday, acquired a few seasons prior, was the starting point guard. Holiday's two-way ability was crucial; he could score, distribute, and defend at a high level. However, injuries limited his availability, which was a recurring theme for the Pelicans during that era. Guys like Tyreke Evans were supposed to be key contributors, bringing scoring punch and playmaking off the bench. Unfortunately, Evans also battled injuries, preventing him from reaching his full potential in New Orleans.

Other notable players included Ryan Anderson, a stretch four known for his shooting prowess, and Eric Gordon, a scorer who could get hot in a hurry. Both Anderson and Gordon provided offensive firepower, spacing the floor for Davis and creating opportunities for others. Omer Asik was the primary defensive anchor, providing rim protection and rebounding. While Asik's offensive limitations were apparent, his defensive presence was valued.

The Supporting Cast: Role Players and Bench Contributors

Beyond the core players, the 2016 Pelicans roster featured a supporting cast of role players and bench contributors. These guys might not have been stars, but they played essential roles in the team's overall performance. Alonzo Gee provided energy and defense off the bench, often tasked with guarding tough perimeter players. Norris Cole, a veteran point guard, brought experience and stability to the backcourt rotation. Luke Babbitt was a spot-up shooter who could knock down open looks, while Dante Cunningham offered versatility and defensive grit.

Young players like Toney Douglas and Tim Frazier also saw playing time, providing glimpses of potential. Douglas, a combo guard, could score and handle the ball, while Frazier, a pass-first point guard, looked to set up his teammates. While these players might not have become long-term fixtures in New Orleans, they contributed to the team's depth and provided valuable minutes when called upon.

Coaching and Strategy: What Was the Game Plan?

The 2016 Pelicans were coached by Alvin Gentry, who had been hired the previous season. Gentry, known for his offensive acumen, aimed to implement a fast-paced, high-scoring system that maximized Davis's talents. The Pelicans looked to push the tempo, spread the floor, and create open shots. However, injuries and defensive deficiencies often hampered their efforts. Defensively, the Pelicans struggled to consistently contain opponents. While Asik provided rim protection, the team lacked overall defensive cohesiveness and struggled to defend the perimeter. Opponents often exploited mismatches and found easy scoring opportunities.

Season Highlights and Lowlights: A Rollercoaster Ride

The 2016 season was a rollercoaster ride for the Pelicans. There were moments of brilliance, such as Davis's monster performances and impressive wins against top teams. However, injuries and inconsistent play led to frustrating losses and a disappointing overall record. One of the season's lowlights was the sheer number of injuries to key players. Davis, Holiday, Evans, and Gordon all missed significant time, disrupting the team's chemistry and hindering their ability to build momentum. Despite the challenges, there were also positive developments. Young players like Frazier and Douglas showed promise, and the team continued to develop its offensive system. However, the overall disappointment of the season led to questions about the team's direction and future.

Where Are They Now? Catching Up with the 2016 Pelicans

So, what happened to the players from the 2016 Pelicans roster? Let's catch up with a few of them:

• Anthony Davis: AD, of course, eventually moved on to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he teamed up with LeBron James and won an NBA championship. He remains one of the league's top players, showcasing his immense talent and versatility.
• Jrue Holiday: Holiday was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he also won a championship alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. He's known as one of the best defensive guards in the league.
• Ryan Anderson: Anderson bounced around the league for a few more seasons before eventually retiring. He remains known for his shooting ability.
• Eric Gordon: Gordon was traded to the Houston Rockets, where he played a key role in their contending teams alongside James Harden and Chris Paul. Currently, he is with the Phoenix Suns.
• Alvin Gentry: Gentry has continued to coach in the NBA, serving as an assistant coach for several teams. He remains respected for his offensive expertise.

Final Thoughts: A Team of Potential, Derailed by Circumstance

The 2016 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a team of potential, but one that was ultimately derailed by injuries and inconsistency. While Anthony Davis was a rising superstar, the team around him struggled to stay healthy and reach its full potential. The season serves as a reminder of the importance of health, chemistry, and overall team cohesion in the NBA. While the 2016 Pelicans didn't achieve their ultimate goals, they provided fans with moments of excitement and glimpses of what could have been. They are a team that will be remembered for their potential, their challenges, and their place in Pelicans history.

In conclusion, the 2016 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a fascinating mix of talent and potential. While injuries and inconsistency prevented them from reaching their goals, the team featured several notable players and provided fans with memorable moments. Looking back, the 2016 season serves as a reminder of the challenges and complexities of building a successful NBA team. Despite the disappointments, the team remains a part of Pelicans history, and their story is worth remembering.