New Orleans Pelicans 2017-18 Roster: A Deep Dive

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the New Orleans Pelicans' 2017-18 season roster. This was a pretty interesting year for the Pelicans, marked by exciting plays, strategic team compositions, and the dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins (before Cousins' injury). Understanding the players who made up this roster gives us a great look at the team's strengths, weaknesses, and overall performance during that season. So, buckle up as we explore each player and how they contributed to the Pelicans' journey!

Point Guards

The point guard position is crucial for dictating the tempo and running the offense. In the 2017-18 season, the Pelicans had a mix of experienced and emerging talents running the point. Rajon Rondo was a key figure, bringing his veteran leadership and playmaking skills to the forefront. His ability to distribute the ball and orchestrate the offense was invaluable. Jrue Holiday also spent significant time at point guard, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess. Let’s take a closer look:

Rajon Rondo

Rajon Rondo, a seasoned veteran, was the primary playmaker for the Pelicans. Known for his exceptional court vision and passing ability, Rondo was instrumental in setting up the offense and creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. His basketball IQ and experience were invaluable in guiding the team, especially in crucial moments of the game. Rondo's ability to read the game and make smart decisions made him a natural leader on the court. He wasn't just about scoring; he was about making everyone around him better, which is what you want in a point guard. His impact extended beyond statistics, influencing the team's overall cohesion and strategic execution. He could thread the needle with passes you didn't even see coming! Rondo's presence brought a calming influence, helping the team maintain composure and execute plays effectively, making him a vital component of the Pelicans' success that season. His defensive capabilities, while sometimes overlooked, were also crucial in disrupting opponents' offensive flows, contributing to the team's overall defensive strategy. Plus, having a guy with championship experience in the locker room always helps. He knows what it takes to get to the top!

Jrue Holiday

Jrue Holiday showcased his versatility by sharing point guard duties. Holiday's scoring ability and defensive tenacity made him a dynamic force on both ends of the court. He was capable of taking over games with his scoring prowess while also shutting down opposing guards with his defensive skills. Holiday’s ability to play both guard positions effectively gave the Pelicans flexibility in their lineups. He could switch between running the offense and focusing on scoring, depending on what the team needed at any given moment. His defensive contributions were particularly notable, often guarding the opponent's best perimeter player and disrupting their offensive rhythm. Jrue's presence provided a significant boost to the Pelicans' defensive intensity, setting the tone for the rest of the team. Moreover, his adaptability allowed the coaching staff to experiment with different strategic approaches, making him a valuable asset in various game situations. Holiday's consistent performance and dedication made him a fan favorite and a key player in the Pelicans' quest for success, highlighting his importance to the team's overall strategy and execution. He was a two-way threat, and that's something every team craves. Seriously, imagine trying to game plan against a guy who can drop 20+ points and lock down your best scorer. Nightmare fuel!

Shooting Guards

The shooting guard position provides scoring punch and perimeter defense. The Pelicans had several players who could fill this role, each bringing their unique skill set to the team. E’Twaun Moore was a reliable scorer and defender, while Ian Clark provided instant offense off the bench. Let's check them out:

E’Twaun Moore

E’Twaun Moore was a consistent and reliable presence at the shooting guard position. Known for his scoring ability and defensive effort, Moore provided a steady contribution on both ends of the court. His ability to knock down perimeter shots made him a valuable asset in spacing the floor and opening up opportunities for his teammates. Moore’s consistent performance and dependable play made him a favorite among coaches and fans alike. He wasn't flashy, but he got the job done, night in and night out. His defensive contributions were also noteworthy, as he consistently guarded some of the opponent's top offensive threats. Moore's reliability and consistency allowed the coaching staff to rely on him in various situations, making him an integral part of the Pelicans' rotation. Moreover, his presence provided a sense of stability and calm, helping the team maintain composure in high-pressure situations. Moore's dedication and work ethic made him a respected figure in the locker room, contributing to the team's overall chemistry and morale. He was the kind of player who always did the little things right, and those little things add up to big wins! Everyone loves a player you can count on, right?

Ian Clark

Ian Clark brought instant offense off the bench, providing a spark with his scoring ability. Clark's quickness and shooting touch made him a valuable asset in the second unit. His ability to create his own shot and score in a variety of ways made him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. Clark's offensive prowess provided a much-needed boost when the starters needed a breather, injecting energy and scoring into the game. His scoring ability added a different dimension to the Pelicans' offense, making them more unpredictable and harder to defend. Moreover, his confidence and aggressiveness often sparked momentum swings, energizing both the team and the fans. Clark's contributions were essential in maintaining the team's offensive output throughout the game, making him a valuable asset off the bench. He was like a microwave – get him hot, and he's gonna light it up! Having that kind of scoring punch coming off the bench can be a game-changer, especially in tight contests where every point matters. Seriously, who doesn't love a guy who can come in and instantly provide a scoring burst?

Small Forwards

The small forward position requires versatility and the ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. In the 2017-18 season, the Pelicans had players who could score, defend, and create opportunities for their teammates. Here is one player:

Darius Miller

Darius Miller provided a steady presence on the wing, contributing as a reliable scorer and defender. Miller’s ability to knock down perimeter shots and play solid defense made him a valuable asset. His versatility allowed him to fit into various lineups and contribute in different ways. Miller's consistent play and willingness to do the little things made him a favorite among coaches and teammates. His ability to space the floor with his shooting helped create driving lanes for other players, enhancing the team's offensive flow. Moreover, his defensive efforts were consistently solid, contributing to the team's overall defensive performance. Miller's presence provided a sense of stability and reliability, making him a valuable role player in the Pelicans' rotation. He was the kind of player who always made the right play, whether it was a timely shot, a smart pass, or a key defensive stop. Guys like that are essential for any successful team, providing the glue that holds everything together. His unselfishness and team-first attitude made him a respected figure in the locker room, contributing to the team's positive culture. Seriously, every team needs a Darius Miller!

Power Forwards

The power forward position is often filled by players who can score inside, rebound, and defend. The Pelicans had two superstars in this role:

Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis was the cornerstone of the Pelicans' offense and defense. Known for his incredible scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and shot-blocking skills, Davis was a dominant force on both ends of the court. His presence alone made the Pelicans a formidable opponent. Davis' ability to score in the post, hit mid-range jumpers, and even step out to the three-point line made him a versatile and unstoppable offensive weapon. Defensively, he was a shot-blocking machine, deterring opponents from attacking the basket and protecting the rim with authority. Davis' impact on the game was undeniable, and he was the focal point of the Pelicans' game plan. His athleticism and skill set were unmatched, allowing him to dominate opponents in a variety of ways. Moreover, his leadership and competitive spirit inspired his teammates to elevate their game. Davis was not just a star player; he was the heart and soul of the Pelicans, driving them to compete at the highest level. He was a walking highlight reel, and every game was an opportunity to witness something special. AD was a force of nature! He could score, rebound, block shots – basically, do it all. Having a guy like that on your team instantly makes you a contender.

Dante Cunningham

Dante Cunningham provided valuable minutes as a versatile forward who could stretch the floor with his shooting and play solid defense. Cunningham’s ability to knock down open shots and defend multiple positions made him a valuable role player. He brought energy and hustle to the court, contributing on both ends of the floor. Cunningham's versatility allowed him to fit into various lineups and contribute in different ways, making him a valuable asset for the Pelicans. His willingness to do the little things, such as setting screens and grabbing rebounds, made him a favorite among coaches and teammates. Moreover, his defensive effort was consistently strong, helping the team maintain its defensive intensity. Cunningham's presence provided a sense of stability and reliability, making him a valuable part of the Pelicans' rotation. He was the kind of player who always did his job, and you could always count on him to give his best effort. Guys like that are essential for any successful team, providing the depth and versatility needed to compete at a high level. Cunningham was a true professional, and his contributions often went unnoticed, but they were vital to the Pelicans' success. He was one of those players who always made the right play at the right time.

Centers

The center position is crucial for rebounding, defending the paint, and providing inside scoring. The Pelicans had two dominant centers:

DeMarcus Cousins

DeMarcus Cousins was a dominant force in the paint, providing scoring, rebounding, and a physical presence. Cousins' versatility and skill set made him a difficult matchup for opposing centers. His ability to score in the post, shoot from the perimeter, and pass the ball made him a triple threat on offense. Defensively, he was a physical presence, challenging shots and grabbing rebounds with authority. Cousins' impact on the game was undeniable, and he formed a formidable frontcourt duo with Anthony Davis. Together, they were a force to be reckoned with, overwhelming opponents with their size, skill, and athleticism. Cousins' intensity and passion for the game were contagious, inspiring his teammates to compete at a high level. However, his season was cut short due to injury, which was a significant blow to the Pelicans' playoff aspirations. Before the injury, though, Boogie was a beast! He and AD formed the most intimidating frontcourt in the league. It was a joy to watch them dominate.

Alexis Ajinca

Alexis Ajinca provided size and depth at the center position. Ajinca’s ability to score inside and rebound made him a valuable role player. His presence gave the Pelicans some insurance in the frontcourt. Ajinca's contributions were important in providing the team with size and physicality when needed. He was a reliable option off the bench, stepping in to fill the void when the starters needed a break. Moreover, his presence in the locker room was positive, contributing to the team's overall morale and chemistry. Ajinca was a true professional, always ready to step up and contribute when called upon. He may not have been a star, but he was a valuable role player who helped the team in his own way. Every team needs guys like that, the unsung heroes who do the dirty work and contribute without seeking the spotlight. He was one of those players who always put the team first.

Conclusion

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a unique blend of talent, experience, and potential. With stars like Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins leading the way, supported by key players like Jrue Holiday and Rajon Rondo, the Pelicans were a team to be reckoned with. While injuries and other challenges impacted their season, the players on this roster showcased their skills and contributed to an exciting chapter in Pelicans history. Understanding the contributions of each player gives us a deeper appreciation for the team's dynamics and their journey throughout that season. It was a memorable year filled with highs and lows, but ultimately, it was a testament to the resilience and talent of the New Orleans Pelicans.