New Orleans Pelicans 2017-18 Season: A Thrilling Ride

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 54 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into the unforgettable 2017-18 season of the New Orleans Pelicans. This season was a rollercoaster of excitement, marked by incredible performances, strategic changes, and a renewed sense of hope for the future. Whether you're a die-hard Pelicans fan or just a basketball enthusiast, there's plenty to unpack and appreciate about this particular year. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let’s get started!

A Season of High Expectations

The 2017-18 NBA season held high expectations for the New Orleans Pelicans. After several seasons of rebuilding and roster adjustments, the team looked poised to make a significant leap forward. A primary reason for this optimism was the dynamic duo of Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins. These two dominant big men formed what many considered the most formidable frontcourt in the league. The Pelicans aimed to capitalize on their combined talent and lead the team to a playoff berth, something that had eluded them in recent years. The chemistry between Davis and Cousins was palpable, and their individual performances were nothing short of spectacular. Davis continued to establish himself as one of the league's premier superstars, showcasing his incredible athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess. Cousins, on the other hand, brought a unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking to the team. Together, they presented a matchup nightmare for opposing teams, often overwhelming defenses with their size and skill. However, the Pelicans knew that success wouldn't solely depend on Davis and Cousins. The team needed contributions from its supporting cast, and the coaching staff, led by Alvin Gentry, focused on developing a cohesive and balanced roster. Jrue Holiday, a seasoned veteran, was expected to play a crucial role in the backcourt, providing stability, scoring, and defensive tenacity. Other key players like E'Twaun Moore, Rajon Rondo, and Darius Miller were also expected to step up and contribute to the team's success. As the season approached, fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipated the Pelicans' potential. The combination of star power, improved depth, and a motivated coaching staff created a sense of excitement and optimism in New Orleans. The question on everyone's mind was whether the Pelicans could live up to the hype and make a deep playoff run.

Key Players and Their Impact

Anthony Davis: The Unstoppable Force

Anthony Davis was, without a doubt, the centerpiece of the Pelicans' 2017-18 campaign. His impact on both ends of the court was monumental, solidifying his status as one of the NBA's elite players. Davis showcased an incredible blend of athleticism, skill, and determination, consistently delivering performances that left fans in awe. Offensively, Davis was a scoring machine, capable of dominating in the paint, knocking down mid-range jumpers, and even stepping out to hit three-pointers. His ability to score in a variety of ways made him incredibly difficult to guard, and he often drew double-teams from opposing defenses. Davis's presence in the post opened up opportunities for his teammates, creating space and allowing for better ball movement. Defensively, Davis was a game-changer, using his length, agility, and instincts to disrupt opponents' offenses. He was a formidable shot-blocker, protecting the rim and deterring drivers from attacking the basket. Davis also excelled at rebounding, using his athleticism to secure boards and give the Pelicans second-chance opportunities. His defensive versatility allowed him to switch onto smaller players and guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset in any defensive scheme. Throughout the season, Davis consistently put up impressive statistics, averaging over 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. His exceptional play earned him numerous accolades, including an All-Star selection and All-NBA First Team honors. Davis's leadership on and off the court was also instrumental in guiding the Pelicans. He set a positive example for his teammates, encouraging them to work hard and strive for excellence. His dedication and commitment to the team were evident in every game, and he inspired his teammates to raise their level of play. Anthony Davis's impact on the Pelicans' 2017-18 season cannot be overstated. He was the driving force behind the team's success, leading them to the playoffs and giving fans a reason to believe in the future.

DeMarcus Cousins: The Dominant Center

DeMarcus Cousins brought a unique and powerful dimension to the Pelicans' frontcourt. His arrival created a dynamic duo alongside Anthony Davis, forming one of the most intimidating pairings in the NBA. Cousins was known for his exceptional scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and surprising playmaking skills for a big man. Offensively, Cousins was a versatile threat, capable of scoring from the post, mid-range, and even beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor made him a difficult matchup for traditional centers, forcing defenses to adjust their schemes. Cousins also possessed excellent court vision, often making pinpoint passes to open teammates for easy scores. His playmaking skills added another layer to the Pelicans' offense, making them more unpredictable and difficult to defend. On the boards, Cousins was a dominant force, using his size and strength to secure rebounds and create second-chance opportunities for the team. His rebounding presence was crucial in controlling the glass and limiting opponents' possessions. Defensively, Cousins brought physicality and toughness to the Pelicans' interior. He was a willing defender, contesting shots and battling for position in the paint. While not known for his shot-blocking ability, Cousins's presence alone made opponents think twice before attacking the basket. Cousins's impact on the Pelicans extended beyond his on-court performance. He brought a competitive edge and a fiery attitude to the team, inspiring his teammates to play with passion and intensity. His vocal leadership and unwavering determination helped to create a winning culture in New Orleans. Unfortunately, Cousins's season was cut short due to a devastating Achilles injury. The injury not only sidelined him for the remainder of the 2017-18 season but also cast doubt on his long-term future. Despite the unfortunate circumstances, Cousins's contributions to the Pelicans were undeniable. He played a vital role in the team's success, helping them to secure a playoff berth and giving fans a glimpse of what could have been.

Jrue Holiday: The Reliable Guard

Jrue Holiday was the steady hand that guided the Pelicans' backcourt throughout the 2017-18 season. As a seasoned veteran, Holiday brought a calming presence, reliable scoring, and tenacious defense to the team. His ability to excel on both ends of the court made him an invaluable asset and a key component of the Pelicans' success. Offensively, Holiday was a consistent scorer, capable of creating his own shots and knocking down open looks. He possessed a smooth jump shot, a crafty handle, and the ability to drive to the basket and finish with finesse. Holiday's offensive versatility made him a difficult matchup for opposing guards, forcing them to respect his scoring ability at all times. In addition to his scoring, Holiday was also an excellent playmaker, capable of running the offense and distributing the ball to his teammates. He had a keen understanding of spacing and timing, often making the right pass at the right moment to create easy scoring opportunities. Defensively, Holiday was a lockdown defender, using his size, strength, and quickness to disrupt opponents' offenses. He was known for his ability to pressure ball-handlers, contest shots, and force turnovers. Holiday's defensive tenacity set the tone for the Pelicans, inspiring his teammates to play with more intensity and focus on the defensive end. Throughout the season, Holiday consistently delivered solid performances, averaging over 19 points, 6 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. His reliability and consistency made him a coach's dream, and he was often called upon to play crucial minutes in key situations. Holiday's impact on the Pelicans extended beyond his statistical contributions. He was a respected leader in the locker room, setting a positive example for his teammates and providing guidance to the younger players. His professionalism and work ethic made him a role model for the entire team. Jrue Holiday's contributions to the Pelicans' 2017-18 season were essential to their success. He provided stability, scoring, and defense, helping the team to secure a playoff berth and make a memorable run. His presence on the court and in the locker room made him an invaluable member of the Pelicans' organization.

Season Highlights and Lowlights

Every NBA season has its share of highs and lows, and the 2017-18 season was no different for the New Orleans Pelicans. Let's take a look at some of the standout moments and challenging periods that defined their year.

Highlights

Dominating Performances by Davis and Cousins: The Pelicans' frontcourt duo frequently delivered awe-inspiring performances, showcasing their combined talent and dominance. Games where both Davis and Cousins put up big numbers were often highlights, demonstrating the team's potential when their stars were firing on all cylinders.
Jrue Holiday's Consistent Play: Holiday's reliability and strong two-way play were a constant positive for the Pelicans. His ability to score, distribute, and defend made him a crucial part of the team's success, and his consistent performances often lifted the team in important games.
Rajon Rondo's Playmaking: Rondo's arrival brought a new dimension to the Pelicans' offense, as his exceptional playmaking skills and court vision elevated the team's offensive efficiency. His ability to create opportunities for his teammates made the Pelicans a more dangerous and unpredictable offensive team.
Playoff Berth: Securing a playoff spot was a significant accomplishment for the Pelicans, marking a return to the postseason after several years of absence. The excitement and energy surrounding the playoff berth were palpable, as fans celebrated the team's success.
Sweeping the Portland Trail Blazers in the First Round: This was a monumental achievement for the Pelicans, as they convincingly defeated a higher-seeded Blazers team led by Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. The sweep showcased the Pelicans' potential and sent a message to the rest of the league that they were a force to be reckoned with.

Lowlights

DeMarcus Cousins' Injury: The Achilles injury suffered by DeMarcus Cousins was a devastating blow to the Pelicans. It not only sidelined him for the remainder of the season but also cast doubt on his long-term future. The injury was a significant setback for the team, as they lost one of their key players and a vital part of their frontcourt dominance.
Inconsistent Play from Role Players: While the Pelicans had several reliable role players, their performance could be inconsistent at times. This inconsistency often hurt the team, as they struggled to maintain leads and close out games when their role players weren't contributing effectively.
Defensive Lapses: The Pelicans occasionally struggled on the defensive end, allowing opponents to score too easily. Defensive lapses often led to frustrating losses, as the team failed to consistently protect the basket and limit opponents' scoring opportunities.
Loss to the Golden State Warriors in the Second Round: While making it to the second round of the playoffs was an accomplishment, the Pelicans ultimately fell short against the dominant Golden State Warriors. The series exposed some of the team's weaknesses and highlighted the gap between them and the league's top contenders.

Regular Season Record and Playoff Run

The New Orleans Pelicans finished the 2017-18 regular season with a record of 48-34, securing the sixth seed in the Western Conference. This record represented a significant improvement from previous seasons and reflected the team's growth and development. The Pelicans' regular-season performance was characterized by strong play from their star players, consistent contributions from their role players, and a cohesive team effort. They showcased an ability to compete with the league's top teams, earning key victories against formidable opponents. Entering the playoffs as the sixth seed, the Pelicans faced a tough challenge in the first round against the Portland Trail Blazers, who had secured the third seed. Despite being the underdogs, the Pelicans defied expectations and swept the Trail Blazers in four games. This impressive victory showcased the Pelicans' potential and sent a message to the rest of the league that they were a serious contender. In the second round, the Pelicans faced the daunting task of taking on the defending champion Golden State Warriors. The Warriors, led by Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Klay Thompson, were widely considered the favorites to win the NBA title. While the Pelicans fought valiantly, they ultimately fell short against the Warriors, losing the series in five games. Despite the loss, the Pelicans' playoff run was a success. They proved that they could compete with the league's best teams and that they had a bright future ahead. The experience gained during the playoffs was invaluable, and it provided a foundation for future growth and success. The Pelicans' 2017-18 season was a testament to their hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in their potential. They overcame challenges, exceeded expectations, and gave their fans a reason to be excited about the future.

Impact and Aftermath

The 2017-18 season had a lasting impact on the New Orleans Pelicans, shaping the team's trajectory and influencing future decisions. Here’s a look at the aftermath and key developments following this memorable year:

Increased Expectations: The Pelicans' success in the 2017-18 season raised expectations for the future. Fans and analysts alike began to view the team as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference, anticipating continued growth and success.
Focus on Building Around Anthony Davis: With Anthony Davis emerging as a true superstar, the Pelicans prioritized building the team around him. Management focused on acquiring players who complemented Davis's skill set and could help the team compete for championships.
Departure of DeMarcus Cousins: Following his Achilles injury, DeMarcus Cousins departed the Pelicans in free agency, signing with the Golden State Warriors. His departure marked the end of the Davis-Cousins era and forced the Pelicans to re-evaluate their roster.
Changes to the Roster: In the years following the 2017-18 season, the Pelicans made several changes to their roster, acquiring new players and parting ways with others. These changes were aimed at improving the team's overall talent and depth, as well as creating a more balanced and cohesive roster.
Continued Development of Young Players: The Pelicans continued to invest in the development of their young players, providing them with opportunities to grow and improve. Players like Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, and Zion Williamson emerged as key contributors, showcasing the team's commitment to developing young talent.
Coaching Changes: The Pelicans underwent coaching changes in the years following the 2017-18 season, seeking to find the right coach to lead the team to sustained success. These coaching changes reflected the organization's commitment to finding the best possible leadership for the team.

The 2017-18 season served as a turning point for the New Orleans Pelicans. It marked a return to the playoffs, showcased the team's potential, and set the stage for future growth and success. While the team faced challenges and underwent changes in the years that followed, the lessons learned and the memories created during that season continue to resonate with fans and players alike.