New Orleans Pelicans 2017 Roster: A Deep Dive

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and dissect the 2017 New Orleans Pelicans roster. This was a pretty interesting year for the Pelicans, marked by high expectations and some significant changes. Whether you're a die-hard Pelicans fan or just a basketball enthusiast, understanding the composition of this team provides valuable insight into the franchise's trajectory.

The Star Duo: Davis and Cousins

At the heart of the 2017 Pelicans was the tantalizing pairing of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. The idea of these two dominant big men playing together sent shockwaves through the league. Anthony Davis, already an established superstar, was expected to elevate his game even further with Cousins by his side. His incredible athleticism, shot-blocking prowess, and offensive versatility made him a nightly matchup nightmare for opponents. Remember those highlight-reel dunks and impossible fadeaway jumpers? Davis was the epitome of a modern NBA power forward/center, capable of scoring inside and out, and protecting the rim with authority. Defensively, his length and timing made him a constant threat to alter shots and grab rebounds. Offensively, he was a walking bucket, able to score in the post, face-up from mid-range, and even knock down the occasional three-pointer. His presence alone warped opposing teams' game plans.

DeMarcus Cousins, acquired mid-season, brought a unique blend of skill and aggression to the Pelicans frontcourt. Cousins wasn't just a bruiser; he possessed exceptional passing skills, a reliable three-point shot, and a knack for creating his own offense. His arrival was supposed to alleviate some of the offensive pressure on Davis and provide the Pelicans with a more balanced attack. However, integrating two high-usage players like Davis and Cousins proved to be a challenge. There were moments of brilliance, flashes of unstoppable offense, but consistency remained elusive. Despite the challenges, Cousins' impact was undeniable. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, combined with his physicality in the paint, created mismatches for opposing defenses. His passing ability, often overlooked, allowed him to find open teammates and keep the offense flowing. And let's not forget his fiery competitiveness, which added an edge to the Pelicans' overall demeanor. The experiment, while promising, ultimately faced hurdles in terms of chemistry and strategic alignment.

The Supporting Cast

Of course, a team is more than just its two stars. The 2017 Pelicans roster featured a supporting cast of players who each brought something different to the table. Jrue Holiday, a versatile guard known for his defensive tenacity and playmaking abilities, was a crucial piece of the puzzle. His ability to guard multiple positions and create opportunities for his teammates made him an invaluable asset. E'Twaun Moore provided reliable scoring and perimeter defense, while Solomon Hill added toughness and defensive versatility. Players like Terrence Jones and Dante Cunningham offered valuable contributions off the bench, providing scoring, rebounding, and energy. The bench unit, though not always consistent, had moments where they provided a much-needed spark. Guys like Tim Frazier, with his quickness and passing ability, and Cheick Diallo, with his raw athleticism and potential, added depth to the roster. The coaching staff constantly tinkered with lineups, searching for the right combinations to maximize the team's potential.

Key Role Players and Their Contributions

Let's dive a little deeper into some of these key role players. Jrue Holiday was the glue guy, the one who held everything together. His ability to score, defend, and facilitate made him an essential component of the Pelicans' success. E'Twaun Moore provided a steady hand on offense, knocking down open shots and making smart decisions. Solomon Hill, while not a flashy player, was a defensive stalwart, often tasked with guarding the opposing team's best offensive player. His willingness to do the dirty work and sacrifice his body made him a valuable asset. The contributions of these role players, while sometimes overlooked, were crucial to the team's overall performance. They provided the balance and depth needed to compete in a demanding Western Conference.

Coaching and Strategy

The 2017 Pelicans were coached by Alvin Gentry, who faced the challenge of integrating the team's star players and maximizing their potential. Gentry's offensive system emphasized pace and space, aiming to create open looks for Davis, Cousins, and the team's shooters. However, defensive consistency remained a challenge, and the Pelicans often struggled to contain opposing offenses. The coaching staff constantly experimented with different lineups and defensive schemes, searching for the right formula to unlock the team's full potential. They focused on improving communication on the defensive end and developing a more cohesive offensive flow. Film sessions were crucial, as the coaches dissected game footage and identified areas for improvement. The goal was to create a system that allowed the team's stars to thrive while also empowering the role players to contribute effectively.

Season Highlights and Challenges

The 2016-2017 season had its share of highs and lows for the Pelicans. There were impressive wins against top teams, showcasing the team's potential when everything clicked. However, there were also frustrating losses, highlighting the inconsistencies that plagued the team throughout the year. Integrating DeMarcus Cousins mid-season presented a unique set of challenges, as the team had to adjust its offensive and defensive schemes to accommodate his presence. The Pelicans ultimately finished with a record of 34-48, missing the playoffs in a competitive Western Conference. Despite the disappointing outcome, there were moments of excitement and promise that offered a glimpse into the team's potential future. The development of young players like Cheick Diallo and the emergence of Jrue Holiday as a reliable scoring option were bright spots in an otherwise challenging season. The team learned valuable lessons about chemistry, consistency, and the importance of playing together as a unit.

The Impact and Legacy of the 2017 Pelicans

While the 2017 Pelicans didn't achieve their ultimate goal of making a deep playoff run, the team left a lasting impact on the franchise. The pairing of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, though ultimately short-lived, created a buzz around the league and offered a glimpse into a potentially dominant future. The development of Jrue Holiday into an All-Star caliber player was another positive outcome of the season. The lessons learned during the 2016-2017 season helped shape the team's future direction, leading to subsequent roster changes and strategic adjustments. The 2017 Pelicans will be remembered as a team with immense potential that ultimately fell short of expectations, but also as a team that laid the foundation for future success.

Where Are They Now?

It's always fun to check in and see where the members of the 2017 Pelicans roster are now. Anthony Davis, of course, went on to join the Los Angeles Lakers and win a championship. DeMarcus Cousins has bounced around the league, showcasing his talents for various teams. Jrue Holiday is now a key member of the Milwaukee Bucks, having won a championship there. Other players from the roster have continued their careers in the NBA or overseas, each carving their own path in the world of basketball. It's a testament to the talent and dedication of these players that they have continued to pursue their passion for the game, even after their time with the Pelicans came to an end.

So there you have it, a deep dive into the 2017 New Orleans Pelicans roster. It was a season of high hopes, notable challenges, and ultimately, valuable lessons learned. This team, with its star power and intriguing mix of players, holds a special place in Pelicans history. What are your favorite memories from that season? Let me know in the comments below!