New Orleans Pelicans 2017-18 Roster: A Deep Dive

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 49 views

Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the New Orleans Pelicans roster from the 2017-18 NBA season. This was a pretty interesting year for the Pelicans, and their roster had some real stars and key role players. We're going to dive deep into each player, their contributions, and how they fit into the team's overall performance. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Remembering the 2017-18 Pelicans Squad

The 2017-18 season was a significant one for the New Orleans Pelicans. Led by their dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday, the team aimed to make a strong push in the Western Conference. To truly appreciate the team's journey and achievements, we need to understand the complete roster, from the starters to the bench players. Each player brought unique skills and experience to the table, contributing to the team's overall performance and chemistry. This deep dive will not only remind us of the players but also highlight the roles they played and the impact they had on the Pelicans' season. Understanding the nuances of this roster can give us a better perspective on the team's strategies, strengths, and areas for improvement during that period. So, let's delve into the specifics and explore the individuals who made up the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans.

Key Players and Their Roles

Let's break down some of the key players on the 2017-18 Pelicans roster and what they brought to the court:

Anthony Davis: Arguably the centerpiece of the team, Anthony Davis was a dominant force on both ends of the floor. His scoring prowess, rebounding ability, and shot-blocking skills made him a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate. In the 2017-18 season, Davis averaged an impressive 28.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks per game. These stats underline his crucial role as the team's primary scorer and defensive anchor. Beyond the numbers, Davis provided leadership and a competitive spirit that motivated his teammates. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and dominate in the paint made him a matchup nightmare for opponents. The Pelicans' offensive and defensive strategies often revolved around leveraging Davis's unique skill set, making him indispensable to their success. He was, without a doubt, the engine that drove the team forward, and his presence on the court significantly elevated the Pelicans' chances of winning.
Jrue Holiday: Jrue Holiday was the team's floor general and a vital part of their success. A dynamic point guard with exceptional playmaking and defensive abilities, Holiday averaged 19.0 points and 6.0 assists per game during the 2017-18 season. His contributions extended beyond these statistics; he was the team's primary ball-handler, often tasked with initiating the offense and making crucial decisions in critical moments. Holiday's defensive tenacity was equally important, as he frequently guarded the opposing team's best perimeter player. This defensive commitment set a tone for the team and added a layer of toughness that was essential for competing in the demanding Western Conference. His partnership with Anthony Davis formed the backbone of the Pelicans' strategy, creating a formidable duo that consistently challenged their rivals. Holiday's versatility and leadership made him an integral component of the team, both on and off the court.
DeMarcus Cousins: Before his injury, DeMarcus Cousins was a significant addition to the Pelicans' frontcourt. Cousins brought a unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking from the center position. His presence alongside Anthony Davis created one of the most formidable frontcourt duos in the NBA. In the games he played during the 2017-18 season, Cousins averaged 25.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. These numbers illustrate his all-around impact on the game. Beyond the stats, his ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting added a new dimension to the Pelicans' offense. His passing skills from the high post often led to easy scoring opportunities for his teammates. Unfortunately, a season-ending injury cut his time short, but his contributions before that were invaluable. The Pelicans' coaching staff had designed many offensive sets to exploit the Davis-Cousins pairing, and their success was evident in the team's improved performance when both were healthy and on the court together.
Rajon Rondo: A veteran point guard known for his high basketball IQ and playmaking skills, Rajon Rondo joined the Pelicans and immediately made an impact. His court vision and passing abilities were crucial in setting up the offense and finding open teammates. While his scoring numbers might not jump off the page, his impact on the team's overall offensive flow was undeniable. Rondo's experience and leadership were equally valuable, particularly in guiding the team through critical moments in games. His ability to control the tempo and make smart decisions with the ball in his hands was a major asset. In the 2017-18 season, Rondo averaged 8.2 points and 8.2 assists, but his influence extended far beyond the box score. He was instrumental in orchestrating the team's offense and ensuring that everyone was in the right position. His partnership with Jrue Holiday in the backcourt gave the Pelicans a unique combination of scoring and playmaking that few teams could match.
E'Twaun Moore: A reliable and versatile guard, E'Twaun Moore provided valuable scoring and defense for the Pelicans. His ability to knock down shots from the perimeter and his tenacious defense made him a valuable asset. Moore averaged 12.5 points per game and shot an impressive 42.5% from three-point range during the 2017-18 season. These numbers highlight his effectiveness as a scoring threat, but his contributions went beyond that. He was often tasked with guarding tough opposing players and provided a steady presence on the court. His consistency and reliability made him a favorite of the coaching staff, and he often played key minutes in close games. Moore's ability to adapt to different roles and contribute in various ways made him an important part of the Pelicans' rotation. His presence on the court helped to balance the team's offense and defense, making him a crucial component of their success.

Other Important Roster Members

Besides the core players, several other members of the 2017-18 Pelicans roster played crucial roles in the team's success. These players provided depth, versatility, and specialized skills that helped the team navigate the challenges of a long NBA season. Their contributions, while sometimes less visible than those of the star players, were nonetheless essential to the team's overall performance. Let's take a closer look at some of these important roster members and the unique qualities they brought to the New Orleans Pelicans.

Darius Miller: A sharpshooting forward, Darius Miller provided valuable perimeter scoring for the Pelicans. His ability to space the floor and knock down three-pointers made him a valuable offensive weapon. During the 2017-18 season, Miller averaged 9.1 points per game while shooting 41.1% from beyond the arc. His presence on the court often forced opposing defenses to stretch, creating opportunities for his teammates to drive to the basket or find open looks. Beyond his shooting, Miller was a smart and versatile player who understood his role within the team's offensive system. His reliability and consistency made him a trusted option off the bench, and he often played key minutes in crucial situations. Miller's contribution was particularly valuable in games where the Pelicans needed additional scoring punch or when opponents tried to pack the paint to contain Anthony Davis and Jrue Holiday.
Ian Clark: A dynamic scorer off the bench, Ian Clark brought instant offense to the Pelicans. His ability to create his own shot and score in bunches made him a valuable addition to the team's second unit. Clark averaged 7.4 points per game during the 2017-18 season, providing a spark whenever he entered the game. His quickness and agility allowed him to get to the basket and finish in traffic, and his perimeter shooting made him a threat from anywhere on the court. Clark's energy and scoring prowess were often instrumental in changing the momentum of games, and he frequently provided the Pelicans with a much-needed boost when the starters were resting. His offensive capabilities made him a key component of the team's strategy, and his contributions off the bench were essential to their success.
Cheick Diallo: A high-energy big man, Cheick Diallo brought athleticism and rebounding to the Pelicans' frontcourt. His hustle and effort on the boards made him a valuable role player. Diallo's athleticism and defensive capabilities allowed him to guard multiple positions, providing the team with versatility on that end of the floor. While his offensive numbers were modest, his contributions often extended beyond the box score. Diallo's energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and he frequently energized the team with his hustle plays and defensive stops. His willingness to do the dirty work and compete for every rebound made him a valuable asset, and his presence on the court provided the Pelicans with a much-needed boost of athleticism and intensity.
Tony Allen: A veteran defensive specialist, Tony Allen brought toughness and experience to the Pelicans. His reputation as a lockdown defender made him a valuable addition to the team's perimeter defense. Allen's tenacity and defensive prowess were instrumental in slowing down opposing scorers, and his leadership in the locker room provided a positive influence for the younger players. While his offensive contributions were limited, his defensive impact was undeniable. Allen's ability to disrupt opposing offenses and force turnovers often sparked the team's transition game, leading to easy scoring opportunities. His presence on the court provided the Pelicans with a defensive edge, and his experience and leadership made him a valuable asset both on and off the court.
Jalen Jones: A versatile forward, Jalen Jones provided depth and flexibility for the Pelicans. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute in different ways made him a valuable role player. Jones's athleticism and scoring ability allowed him to make an impact on both ends of the floor. While his playing time varied throughout the season, his contributions were always appreciated. Jones's versatility and willingness to play any role asked of him made him a favorite of the coaching staff, and his presence on the team provided valuable depth and flexibility.

Coaching Staff and Their Impact

The success of any NBA team isn't solely dependent on the players; the coaching staff plays a pivotal role in shaping the team's identity, strategy, and performance. During the 2017-18 season, the New Orleans Pelicans were led by a dedicated and experienced coaching staff that brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. The head coach and his assistants worked tirelessly to develop game plans, implement strategies, and maximize the potential of each player on the roster. Their leadership and guidance were essential in navigating the challenges of a demanding NBA season and fostering a culture of teamwork and excellence. Let's delve into the key members of the coaching staff and examine their contributions to the Pelicans' journey.

Head Coach Alvin Gentry: Alvin Gentry served as the head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2017-18 season. Known for his offensive-minded approach, Gentry implemented a system that aimed to maximize the talents of Anthony Davis, Jrue Holiday, and other key players. His ability to create an environment where players could thrive was crucial to the team's success. Gentry's coaching philosophy emphasized pace, spacing, and ball movement, which allowed the Pelicans to generate high-quality scoring opportunities. He was adept at making in-game adjustments and tailoring his strategies to exploit opponents' weaknesses. Gentry's experience and leadership were instrumental in guiding the team through the ups and downs of the season, and his positive relationships with his players helped to foster a cohesive and supportive atmosphere. His strategic acumen and ability to motivate his team were key factors in the Pelicans' achievements during the 2017-18 season.

Season Highlights and Achievements

The 2017-18 season had its fair share of memorable moments for the New Orleans Pelicans. From thrilling victories to individual player milestones, there was plenty to celebrate. The team's resilience and determination were evident throughout the season, and their journey was filled with highs and lows. The ability to overcome adversity and maintain a competitive edge was a testament to the team's character and the leadership of its key players and coaching staff. Let's look back at some of the highlights and achievements that defined the Pelicans' 2017-18 campaign.

Playoff Appearance: One of the biggest highlights of the season was the Pelicans' playoff appearance. After a hard-fought regular season, the team secured a spot in the Western Conference playoffs, giving their fans something to cheer about. Making the playoffs was a significant accomplishment, especially given the tough competition in the Western Conference. The Pelicans' ability to compete with and defeat some of the league's top teams was a sign of their growth and potential. The playoff berth also provided valuable experience for the team's younger players, which would prove beneficial in the seasons to come.
Anthony Davis's Dominance: Anthony Davis had an outstanding season, solidifying his status as one of the league's top players. His consistent performance and highlight-reel plays were a joy to watch. Davis's ability to score, rebound, and defend at an elite level made him a dominant force on both ends of the court. He earned numerous accolades and recognition for his achievements, further cementing his reputation as a superstar in the NBA. His performances were not only impressive from a statistical standpoint but also inspired his teammates and raised the overall level of play for the Pelicans. Davis's leadership and commitment to excellence set a high standard for the team and contributed significantly to their success.
Rajon Rondo's Playmaking: Rajon Rondo's playmaking skills were on full display throughout the season. His ability to distribute the ball and orchestrate the offense was crucial to the team's success. Rondo's court vision and passing ability created numerous scoring opportunities for his teammates, making the Pelicans' offense more dynamic and efficient. His leadership and experience were invaluable in guiding the team, especially during critical moments in games. Rondo's presence on the court often had a calming effect, and his ability to make smart decisions with the ball in his hands was a major asset for the Pelicans.

Where Are They Now?

It's always interesting to see where players end up after a particular season. Many members of the 2017-18 Pelicans roster have continued their NBA careers with other teams, while some have pursued opportunities overseas or transitioned into different roles within the basketball world. Tracking the paths of these players can give us a sense of the impact they had on the game and the legacy they are building. Let's take a quick look at where some of the key members of the 2017-18 Pelicans roster are now.

Anthony Davis: AD is now a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers, where he won an NBA championship in 2020.
Jrue Holiday: Jrue Holiday has continued to be a top-tier point guard, playing for the Milwaukee Bucks and winning a championship with them in 2021. He is now with the Boston Celtics.
Rajon Rondo: Rajon Rondo has bounced around to several teams, adding his veteran presence and playmaking skills wherever he goes. He has since retired from the NBA.

Final Thoughts

The 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster was a unique blend of talent and experience. The team's performance that season was a testament to the players' hard work and the coaching staff's guidance. While the roster may have changed over the years, the memories and achievements of that season remain a significant part of Pelicans' history. It's always fun to look back and appreciate the contributions of these players to the game of basketball.

So, there you have it – a deep dive into the 2017-18 New Orleans Pelicans roster. Hope you guys enjoyed this trip down memory lane! It's amazing to see how these players have grown and evolved since then. Until next time!