New Orleans Pelicans Roster: The 2017 Squad

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and dive into the New Orleans Pelicans roster from 2017. This was an interesting time for the Pelicans, marked by high expectations and a blend of talent that had fans buzzing. Understanding the composition of this team gives great insight into the franchise's journey and the players who donned the Pelicans jersey back then. So, buckle up as we explore the key players, coaching staff, and the overall vibe of the 2017 New Orleans Pelicans.

The Star Duo: Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins

At the heart of the 2017 Pelicans roster were two absolute behemoths: Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. The pairing of these two dominant big men was something the NBA hadn't seen in a while, and the excitement was palpable.

Anthony Davis, already an established superstar, was entering his prime. Known for his incredible versatility, Davis could score inside and out, block shots with authority, and run the floor like a guard. In 2017, he was the undisputed cornerstone of the Pelicans franchise, carrying a significant load on both ends of the court. His ability to impact the game in so many ways made him a nightly threat for a double-double, and often much more. He brought an intensity and determination that was infectious, setting the tone for the team. Davis's presence alone made the Pelicans a team to watch, and the addition of Cousins only amplified the anticipation.

DeMarcus Cousins, acquired mid-season, brought a unique blend of skill and physicality to the Pelicans. Cousins was not just a low-post scorer; he could also handle the ball, shoot from beyond the arc, and create plays for his teammates. His arrival was intended to give the Pelicans a significant boost and form a formidable frontcourt pairing that would terrorize opposing defenses. The idea was simple: how could any team effectively guard two players with that much talent and versatility? The experiment, while promising, faced its share of challenges, including integrating two ball-dominant players and finding the right chemistry.

The Davis-Cousins duo was more than just a collection of individual talent; it represented a strategic gamble by the Pelicans front office to accelerate their timeline and compete at the highest level. The initial returns were promising, with flashes of brilliance that showcased the duo's potential. However, injuries and the challenges of meshing two alpha personalities ultimately hindered their success. Despite the relatively short time they played together, the tandem left an indelible mark on the Pelicans' history, representing a period of high expectations and undeniable star power. Their time together was a roller coaster, filled with highlight-reel plays and frustrating losses, making the 2017 season a memorable one for Pelicans fans.

Supporting Cast: Key Role Players

While Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins headlined the 2017 Pelicans, a solid supporting cast played crucial roles in the team's performance. These players provided the necessary depth, experience, and complementary skills that helped the Pelicans compete. Let's take a look at some of the key role players who contributed to the team:

• Jrue Holiday: A versatile guard known for his scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess, Jrue Holiday was a vital cog in the Pelicans' backcourt. His ability to guard multiple positions, create opportunities for his teammates, and knock down timely shots made him an indispensable part of the team. Holiday's steady presence and all-around game provided a calming influence on the court, and his contributions often went beyond the box score. He was the glue that held the team together, offering a reliable option on both ends of the floor. His defensive intensity and ability to disrupt opposing offenses were particularly valuable, making him a fan favorite in New Orleans.
• E'Twaun Moore: A reliable shooter and versatile player, E'Twaun Moore provided valuable scoring and spacing for the Pelicans. His ability to knock down open shots and make smart decisions with the ball made him a trusted option off the bench. Moore's consistency and willingness to do the little things were greatly appreciated by the coaching staff and his teammates. He was the kind of player who could always be counted on to make the right play, whether it was hitting a crucial three-pointer or making a key defensive stop. His contributions often flew under the radar, but his impact on the team's success was undeniable.
• Rajon Rondo: Although Rondo didn't join the Pelicans until the following season, his absence in 2017 highlights the need for a true floor general. In 2018, Rondo's playmaking and leadership elevated the team, showcasing how crucial a seasoned point guard can be. His ability to distribute the ball, control the tempo, and make smart decisions in crucial moments proved invaluable. Rondo's arrival filled a significant void and helped unlock the full potential of the Pelicans' offense. His presence on the court provided a calming influence, and his basketball IQ was second to none. He was the missing piece that helped transform the Pelicans into a legitimate contender.

These role players, along with others like Dante Cunningham and Terrence Jones, formed a cohesive unit that complemented the star power of Davis and Cousins. Their contributions were essential to the Pelicans' overall success, and they played a vital role in the team's quest to compete in the tough Western Conference.

Coaching Staff and Strategy

The 2017 New Orleans Pelicans were led by Head Coach Alvin Gentry, who brought a wealth of experience and a fast-paced offensive philosophy to the team. Gentry's coaching style emphasized pushing the tempo, creating open looks for shooters, and utilizing the unique talents of Davis and Cousins. His offensive schemes were designed to maximize the potential of the team's star players, while also incorporating the strengths of the supporting cast. Gentry's ability to adapt his strategies and make adjustments throughout the season was crucial to the Pelicans' success.

Gentry's coaching staff included experienced assistants who played key roles in player development, game planning, and scouting. These assistants worked closely with the players to improve their skills, prepare them for upcoming opponents, and ensure they were executing the game plan effectively. The coaching staff's collaborative approach and attention to detail were essential to the Pelicans' overall performance.

The strategy for the 2017 Pelicans revolved around leveraging the dominant frontcourt pairing of Davis and Cousins. The team aimed to establish a strong inside presence, control the boards, and force opposing defenses to double-team, creating open looks for shooters on the perimeter. Defensively, the Pelicans focused on protecting the paint, contesting shots, and utilizing their length and athleticism to disrupt opposing offenses. The coaching staff emphasized communication, teamwork, and discipline on both ends of the court.

However, integrating two ball-dominant big men like Davis and Cousins into a cohesive offensive system proved to be a challenge. Finding the right balance between feeding the post and creating opportunities for the perimeter players required constant adjustments and experimentation. The coaching staff worked diligently to develop sets and strategies that would maximize the effectiveness of both players, while also ensuring that the supporting cast remained engaged and involved in the offense.

Season Highlights and Challenges

The 2017 season was a mixed bag for the New Orleans Pelicans, filled with both exciting highlights and frustrating challenges. The arrival of DeMarcus Cousins mid-season injected a jolt of energy into the team and raised expectations among fans. The pairing of Davis and Cousins created a buzz around the league, and the Pelicans looked poised to make a serious playoff push. However, injuries and inconsistencies plagued the team throughout the season, preventing them from reaching their full potential.

One of the highlights of the season was the emergence of the Davis-Cousins duo as one of the most dominant frontcourt pairings in the NBA. The two big men showcased their incredible skill and versatility, putting up monster numbers and leading the Pelicans to several impressive victories. Their ability to score inside and out, rebound, and block shots made them a nightmare for opposing defenses. When they were clicking, the Pelicans were a force to be reckoned with.

However, the Pelicans also faced their share of challenges. Injuries to key players, including Cousins, disrupted the team's chemistry and prevented them from building sustained momentum. Integrating Cousins into the offense took time, and the Pelicans struggled to find the right balance between feeding the post and creating opportunities for the perimeter players. Inconsistencies on defense also plagued the team, as they struggled to contain opposing offenses and protect the paint.

Despite the challenges, the 2017 season provided valuable lessons for the Pelicans. The team learned the importance of depth, chemistry, and consistency, and they gained a better understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest level. The experience also helped the coaching staff refine their strategies and identify areas for improvement. While the season ultimately fell short of expectations, it laid the foundation for future success.

Where Are They Now?

It's always interesting to see where the players from a particular roster end up years later. As of today:

• Anthony Davis: After spending several years as the face of the Pelicans franchise, Davis was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019. He won an NBA championship with the Lakers in 2020 and continues to be one of the league's premier players.
• DeMarcus Cousins: Cousins' career has been marked by injuries and changes of scenery. After leaving the Pelicans, he played for several teams, including the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and Denver Nuggets. He continues to be a productive player when healthy.
• Jrue Holiday: Holiday was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2020, where he won an NBA championship in 2021. He is widely regarded as one of the league's best defensive guards and a valuable contributor on both ends of the court.
• E'Twaun Moore: Moore has continued to be a reliable role player in the NBA, playing for several teams since leaving the Pelicans. He is known for his shooting, versatility, and professionalism.

The 2017 New Orleans Pelicans roster represents a unique chapter in the team's history. While the season had its ups and downs, it showcased the potential of a team built around two dominant big men and a solid supporting cast. The players who donned the Pelicans jersey that year left an indelible mark on the franchise, and their contributions will not be forgotten. So there you have it – a look back at the 2017 New Orleans Pelicans. Hope you enjoyed the trip down memory lane!