New Orleans Pelicans Roster 2017-18: A Look Back

What's up, basketball fanatics! Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit the New Orleans Pelicans roster for the 2017-18 NBA season. This was a pretty pivotal year for the squad, folks. They had some serious talent, a couple of game-changing moves, and a whole lot of buzz surrounding them. You might remember some of the big names that were rocking the Pelicans' purple and gold back then. It was a team that, on paper, had the potential to make some serious noise in the Western Conference. We're talking about a roster that featured some absolute studs, guys who could light up the scoreboard and lock down opponents.

The Core Duo: Cousins and Davis

When you talk about the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18, you absolutely have to start with the dynamic duo of DeMarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis. Man, these two together were a force to be reckoned with! Boogie Cousins brought that bruising physicality, incredible passing vision for a big man, and a scoring punch that was tough to handle. He was an absolute beast in the paint and could step out and hit the three-ball too. Then you had The Brow, Anthony Davis, arguably one of the most gifted and versatile big men the league has ever seen. His athleticism, defensive prowess, and offensive skillset were just off the charts. He could score from anywhere, block shots with authority, and just dominate on both ends of the floor. Imagine trying to guard a pick-and-roll with those two! It was a nightmare for opposing defenses. Their chemistry was still developing, but the raw talent and potential were undeniable. This pairing was supposed to be the cornerstone for years to come, and for a while, it looked like it could be something special. They were both in their prime, putting up monster numbers, and giving teams fits. It was a high-risk, high-reward situation for the Pelicans, but when it worked, boy, did it work.

Key Additions and Departures

Now, before the 2017-18 season kicked off, the Pelicans made some crucial moves to complement their star power. One of the biggest acquisitions that summer was Jrue Holiday. Trading for Jrue was a massive deal, guys. He brought elite perimeter defense, solid playmaking, and a veteran presence that the team desperately needed. He was a steady hand at point guard, capable of orchestrating the offense and guarding the opponent's best ball-handler. This move was seen as a massive upgrade, solidifying their backcourt and adding another reliable scoring option. On the flip side, not everyone who was there before stuck around. The roster saw some turnover, as is always the case in the NBA. But the focus for the Pelicans heading into this season was clearly on building around their two stars and adding pieces that would help them compete now. They were trying to strike while the iron was hot, maximizing the years they had with Cousins and Davis on the same team. The front office was certainly aggressive, trying to put the best possible product on the floor to challenge the established powers in the West. It was an exciting time for the fanbase, with the hope that these moves would finally push them into the contender category.

The Supporting Cast

Beyond the big names, the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18 was rounded out by a solid group of role players who chipped in significantly. You had guys like Solo (Solomon Hill), who was a versatile wing defender and could hit an open shot. Then there was E'Twaun Moore, a smooth-shooting guard who provided valuable scoring off the bench and could also handle the ball. Darius Miller also played a role, offering floor spacing with his shooting ability. And let's not forget Cheick Diallo, a young big man who showed flashes of potential and contributed energy when called upon. These players might not have been All-Stars, but they were crucial to the team's success. They provided depth, locked down opposing players, knocked down crucial threes, and brought valuable energy. The Pelicans understood that you can't win with just two stars; you need a strong supporting cast to truly contend. This group of players understood their roles and executed them effectively, making them a well-rounded and competitive team. They were the glue that held everything together, allowing Cousins and Davis to do their thing without being overwhelmed.

A Season of Peaks and Valleys

The 2017-18 season for the Pelicans was, shall we say, an adventure. They showed flashes of brilliance, especially when Cousins and Davis were healthy and clicking. There were games where they looked absolutely unstoppable, overpowering opponents with their sheer talent and physicality. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing, guys. Injuries played a role, and the team experienced its fair share of ups and downs. The Western Conference was stacked that year, and every night was a battle. Despite the challenges, the Pelicans managed to secure a playoff spot, which was a significant achievement given the competition. They showed resilience and grit, fighting their way into the postseason. It was a testament to the talent on the roster and the coaching staff's ability to adapt. The rollercoaster nature of the season made it exciting for fans, but also a bit frustrating at times. You saw what they could be, and then sometimes you saw the limitations. It was a year of learning and growth, even with the spectacular talent on display. The team had to navigate injuries, tough road games, and the pressure of playoff contention, all while trying to integrate new pieces and fine-tune their chemistry.

The Playoff Run

Making it to the playoffs was one thing, but how did the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18 fare when the stakes got even higher? Well, they made some noise in the first round! They faced off against the Portland Trail Blazers, a tough opponent in their own right. But the Pelicans, led by the incredible play of Anthony Davis and a strong supporting cast, swept the series 4-0! It was a dominant performance and a huge statement for the franchise. Anthony Davis was absolutely sensational, putting up historic numbers and carrying the team. Jrue Holiday's defense was stifling, and everyone else chipped in. This playoff series showcased the best of what that Pelicans team could be when firing on all cylinders. Unfortunately, their playoff journey ended in the second round against the Golden State Warriors, who were a dynasty in the making. It was a tough matchup, and while the Pelicans put up a fight, they ultimately fell short. Still, that first-round sweep was a memorable moment and a highlight of the season, proving that this roster had the potential to achieve great things.

The Legacy of the 2017-18 Pelicans

So, what's the lasting impression of the New Orleans Pelicans roster 2017-18? It's a team that's remembered for its incredible star power with Cousins and Davis, a potential super-duo that, for a brief period, looked like it could conquer the league. It's also remembered for the solid moves like acquiring Jrue Holiday, which addressed key needs. While the ultimate championship didn't materialize, and the Cousins-Davis era eventually ended, this roster represented a period of high hopes and exciting basketball for New Orleans. They provided memorable moments, including that incredible first-round playoff sweep. It serves as a reminder of what could have been and the constant pursuit of building a championship-caliber team in the NBA. The blend of dominant big men, gritty defenders, and timely shooters made them a unique and entertaining squad to watch. It was a team that dared to dream big, and for a while, they made those dreams seem attainable. The