2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans Roster: A Deep Dive

Hey sports fans! Let's rewind the clock and dive into the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster. This was a pivotal season for the Pels, filled with exciting moments, standout performances, and a whole lot of grit. We'll be taking a deep dive into the players, their stats, and what made this team tick. Get ready for a trip down memory lane, guys!

The Core Players: Leading the Charge

At the heart of the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans success were their core players, the guys who carried the team and made those highlight-reel plays. Leading the charge, of course, was Anthony Davis, a dominant force in the paint, showcasing his incredible scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and shot-blocking skills. His presence alone made the Pelicans a team to be reckoned with. Davis was a true MVP candidate, putting up numbers that had everyone talking. Then, there was DeMarcus Cousins, who, when healthy, formed a formidable frontcourt duo with Davis. Boogie's scoring, passing, and rebounding made the Pelicans offense dynamic and difficult to defend. Imagine trying to guard those two! A nightmare, right? Unfortunately, Cousins suffered a season-ending injury, which was a huge blow to the team. Filling in the gaps were players like Jrue Holiday, a steady hand at the point guard position. Holiday's defensive tenacity, playmaking skills, and ability to score when needed were crucial. He brought a sense of calm and control to the team, and he was the glue that kept everything together. E'Twaun Moore was another key contributor, providing consistent scoring and reliable perimeter shooting off the bench. Moore was a sneaky good player, always finding a way to make an impact. The core of this team was a mix of talent, grit, and determination. They were a fun team to watch, and they always gave it their all. These guys were the heart and soul of the team, and they made sure the Pelicans were always in the fight.

Anthony Davis: The Unstoppable Force

Let's talk about Anthony Davis for a sec. This guy was a monster on the court! His ability to score from anywhere, rebound with ferocity, and protect the rim made him one of the most complete players in the league. During the 2017-18 season, Davis averaged a staggering 28.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. Those numbers are insane! He was the focal point of the Pelicans' offense, and he rarely disappointed. Davis's performances were a sight to behold, and he consistently delivered game-winning performances. His impact on the team was undeniable, making him an MVP candidate every night he stepped on the court. He was an absolute game-changer, plain and simple. Davis was the reason the Pelicans were competitive in every game they played. He was the face of the franchise, and he always played with passion and intensity. He was a true leader, both on and off the court. We all were super sad when he left, but we can't forget the amazing contributions he brought to the team.

DeMarcus Cousins: The Big Man's Impact

DeMarcus Cousins' arrival in New Orleans was a game-changer. His presence in the frontcourt alongside Anthony Davis created a tandem that was almost impossible to stop. Cousins brought a unique blend of size, skill, and intensity to the Pelicans. He was a dominant scorer, a skilled passer, and a tenacious rebounder. Together, Davis and Cousins formed one of the most formidable frontcourts in the league. It was a sight to behold watching the two of them play together. Cousins averaged an impressive 25.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. Unfortunately, a devastating Achilles injury cut his season short, impacting the team's playoff hopes. His absence was deeply felt, but his impact on the team was still significant. He was a charismatic player and a great teammate. Cousins' talent and intensity brought a whole new dimension to the Pelicans. His ability to score from anywhere on the court made the offense more dynamic and unpredictable. He brought a sense of swagger and confidence to the team. His impact, though short-lived, was memorable, leaving a lasting impression on the franchise. The Pelicans were a better team with him. Cousins was a true force of nature, and his presence on the court was electrifying.

The Supporting Cast: Role Players and Key Contributors

While the core players stole most of the headlines, the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster featured a solid supporting cast. These role players played crucial roles, bringing energy, depth, and versatility to the team. They were the unsung heroes who helped the Pelicans achieve success. These players may not have been the stars, but their contributions were essential to the team's overall performance. Let's give some love to these guys! They were vital to the team's success.

Jrue Holiday: The Defensive Anchor

Jrue Holiday was the steady hand that the Pelicans needed. He was a true floor general, providing stability and leadership at the point guard position. Holiday's defensive prowess was one of his most valuable assets. He was a lockdown defender, capable of guarding multiple positions. His presence on the court gave the Pelicans a defensive edge. He was a disruptive force, forcing turnovers and frustrating opponents. Offensively, Holiday was a reliable scorer and playmaker. He could score from anywhere on the court, and he always knew how to make the right play. He was the perfect example of a two-way player. He was a true leader, always setting the example for his teammates. Holiday’s ability to defend and playmake was a huge asset to the team, and he was the glue that held everything together. Holiday averaged 19 points and 6 assists per game during the season. His contributions were vital to the Pelicans' success. He was a true professional, always giving it his all. Holiday was a crucial player for the Pelicans, and his impact on the team cannot be overstated.

E'Twaun Moore: The Reliable Scorer

E'Twaun Moore was a consistent scorer and a reliable presence off the bench. His ability to hit shots from beyond the arc and his knack for scoring in the clutch made him a valuable asset for the Pelicans. Moore was a versatile player, capable of playing multiple positions. His scoring ability was especially important to the team. He could create his own shot and knock down clutch baskets. Moore consistently provided a scoring punch off the bench. He was a steady and reliable contributor, always ready to step up when needed. His scoring output was essential. He brought a sense of calm and composure to the team. Moore provided a much-needed scoring boost, helping the Pelicans maintain their offensive rhythm. He was a great teammate, always putting the team first. E'Twaun Moore's contributions were often underrated, but they were critical to the team's success. He was a great role player, and his impact on the team should not be underestimated.

Key Stats and Season Highlights

The 2017-18 season was filled with memorable moments and impressive statistics for the New Orleans Pelicans. Here are some of the key stats and highlights from that year, folks.

• Regular Season Record: 48-34, a testament to their regular-season performance and placing them as a contender in the Western Conference. They secured a playoff spot and showcased their consistency throughout the season. They were a force to be reckoned with. What a season! The team's record reflected their hard work and dedication. The Pelicans proved they were a team to watch, showcasing their skills and determination. This was a season of promise and excitement. They were a joy to watch.
• Playoff Run: The Pelicans made a strong playoff run, eventually losing to the Golden State Warriors in the second round. They defeated the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round. The team's playoff run was a testament to their resilience and determination. They showcased their skills and fought hard against tough opponents. They demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level. The team's playoff appearance was a major achievement, showcasing their growth and potential.
• Anthony Davis' Dominance: Davis' outstanding performance included averaging 28.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game, cementing his status as one of the league's top players. His performance was truly remarkable, with his dominance on both ends of the court being a key factor in the team's success. His scoring and rebounding were invaluable.
• DeMarcus Cousins' Impact: Before his injury, Cousins added an impressive 25.2 points and 12.9 rebounds per game, significantly boosting the team's offensive prowess. His impact on the team, though cut short by injury, was undeniable.
• Jrue Holiday's All-Around Game: Holiday's consistent performance, averaging 19 points and 6 assists per game, was critical to the Pelicans' success. He was a vital asset on both ends of the court.

Reflecting on the Season: What Made Them Special?

So, what made the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans so special, guys? It was a combination of talent, teamwork, and resilience. The team was led by two dominant big men, Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, who formed a formidable frontcourt duo. Their individual brilliance and collective synergy set them apart. The presence of Jrue Holiday provided stability and leadership, acting as the team's defensive anchor and playmaker. His all-around game elevated the team's overall performance. The supporting cast also contributed significantly, with players like E'Twaun Moore and others providing much-needed scoring and depth. The role players were a vital part of the team's success. The team's ability to overcome adversity was also noteworthy. They faced injuries and tough opponents. Despite these challenges, they persevered and delivered impressive performances. Their resilience was inspiring. They always gave it their all. The 2017-18 Pelicans were a team of fighters. They were a joy to watch, and their fans will always remember their grit and determination. They were a team that never gave up. They were special, and their season was a testament to their hard work and dedication.

The Legacy: Where Are They Now?

Wondering what happened to the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans? Here’s a quick rundown of where some of the key players are now, and what they’ve been up to since that exciting season:

• Anthony Davis: After leaving the Pelicans, Davis joined the Los Angeles Lakers and won an NBA Championship. He remains a dominant force. His impact continues to be felt in the league.
• DeMarcus Cousins: Cousins played for several teams after his injury with the Pelicans. He is still in the league and contributing.
• Jrue Holiday: After the Pelicans, Holiday continued his success with the Milwaukee Bucks, winning an NBA Championship. He has established himself as one of the league's premier guards.
• E'Twaun Moore: Moore has continued his career in the NBA and has made an impact on several teams. He is known for his reliability and consistent performance.

The 2017-18 season was a turning point for many of these players. Their contributions to the Pelicans have left a lasting legacy. Their careers have been a testament to their talent and dedication. These guys were a joy to watch. Their journeys after the Pelicans showcase their impact on the game.

Conclusion: Remembering the 2017-18 Pelicans

So there you have it, folks! The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans were a team that will forever be remembered by fans. They had exciting players, memorable moments, and a never-say-die attitude. Even though they didn't win a championship, they gave us a season to remember, filled with hope and excitement. They left a lasting impression on the fans. It was a season of high expectations and unforgettable performances. From Anthony Davis' dominance to Jrue Holiday's all-around play, this team had it all. Despite the injury setbacks and tough playoff battles, they showed resilience and determination. They were a fun team, and their fans will always cherish the memories of this exciting season. This team was special, and we'll always remember the grit and determination they brought to the court. The 2017-18 Pelicans brought a level of excitement to New Orleans that will never be forgotten.