New Orleans Pelicans 2017: A Season In Review

The New Orleans Pelicans 2017 season was a year of transition, hope, and ultimately, some disappointment for fans in the Big Easy. Coming off a lukewarm previous season, there were expectations that the Pelicans, led by their superstar Anthony Davis, would finally take the leap into serious playoff contention. This article delves into the key storylines, player performances, coaching decisions, and overall trajectory of the Pelicans' 2016-2017 campaign. We'll explore what went right, what went wrong, and what lessons the franchise learned as they looked to build a brighter future. So, let's jump in and dissect the ins and outs of the New Orleans Pelicans' 2017 journey!

Season Expectations and Key Acquisitions

Heading into the 2016-2017 season, the New Orleans Pelicans were aiming to improve upon their previous year's record and make a push for the playoffs. The team's success was heavily reliant on the performance of Anthony Davis, who was expected to carry the offensive load and anchor the defense. Surrounding Davis, the Pelicans had a mix of veteran players and young prospects, hoping to find the right combination to complement their superstar. Pre-season predictions varied, with some analysts believing the Pelicans could sneak into the playoffs as a lower seed, while others were more skeptical, citing concerns about the team's depth and overall chemistry. A key acquisition during the offseason was veteran guard Langston Galloway, who was brought in to provide scoring and stability to the backcourt. Galloway's ability to shoot from beyond the arc and create his own shot was seen as a valuable asset for the Pelicans' offense. The team also added rookie Buddy Hield with the 6th overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. Hield, a prolific scorer in college, was expected to contribute immediately and provide a scoring punch off the bench. His shooting prowess and offensive versatility were seen as a perfect fit alongside Davis. However, injuries quickly became a major obstacle for the Pelicans, as several key players were sidelined early in the season. These injuries disrupted the team's chemistry and made it difficult for them to establish any consistency. Despite the setbacks, the Pelicans remained determined to compete and make the most of their opportunities. The coaching staff worked tirelessly to develop strategies that would maximize the team's strengths and minimize their weaknesses. They experimented with different lineups and rotations, searching for the right combinations that would spark success. As the season progressed, the Pelicans faced numerous challenges, but they never lost sight of their goal to improve and compete. The team's resilience and determination were evident in their hard-fought battles on the court. While the season ultimately fell short of expectations, the Pelicans continued to build a foundation for the future.

Anthony Davis's Dominance

Anthony Davis truly cemented himself as one of the NBA's elite players during the 2016-2017 season. His individual performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he consistently put up eye-popping numbers and showcased his incredible versatility. Davis averaged a staggering 28.0 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game, solidifying his status as a dominant force on both ends of the court. His scoring prowess was on full display, as he utilized his combination of size, athleticism, and skill to score in a variety of ways. From powerful dunks to smooth jumpers, Davis proved to be an unstoppable offensive weapon. In addition to his scoring, Davis was also a dominant rebounder, using his length and strength to secure boards and create second-chance opportunities for his team. His presence in the paint made it difficult for opponents to score, and his ability to block shots was a constant deterrent. Beyond the numbers, Davis's impact on the game was immeasurable. His presence alone altered opponents' game plans, and his ability to control the paint made it difficult for them to establish any rhythm. He was also a vocal leader on the court, constantly encouraging his teammates and setting the tone for the team. Despite Davis's outstanding individual performance, the Pelicans struggled to translate his dominance into consistent team success. The team's inability to find a reliable supporting cast around Davis hindered their ability to compete with the top teams in the league. Davis's efforts were often not enough to overcome the team's shortcomings, and the Pelicans ultimately fell short of their playoff aspirations. However, Davis's individual brilliance was undeniable, and he continued to establish himself as one of the league's brightest stars. His performances during the 2016-2017 season served as a reminder of his immense potential and the heights he could reach with the right supporting cast. The Pelicans recognized the need to surround Davis with more talent, and they began to explore ways to improve the team's roster. They understood that Davis's prime years were precious, and they were determined to build a championship-caliber team around him. As the season progressed, Davis continued to refine his game and work on his weaknesses. He focused on improving his shooting range, ball-handling skills, and decision-making abilities. His dedication to his craft was evident, and he constantly sought ways to elevate his game to the next level. Davis's commitment to excellence inspired his teammates, and they followed his lead in working hard and striving for improvement. The Pelicans coaching staff also played a crucial role in Davis's development, providing him with guidance and support. They worked with him on specific aspects of his game and helped him to better understand his role within the team's offensive and defensive systems.

Mid-Season Trade: The Arrival of DeMarcus Cousins

The mid-season trade that brought DeMarcus Cousins to the New Orleans Pelicans was arguably the most significant event of their 2016-2017 season. The move signaled a bold attempt to pair two of the league's most dominant big men, Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, in hopes of creating an unstoppable frontcourt duo. On February 19, 2017, the Pelicans acquired Cousins and Omri Casspi from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Buddy Hield, Tyreke Evans, Langston Galloway, and a 2017 first-round pick, and a 2017 second-round pick. The trade sent shockwaves throughout the league, as many questioned whether two such ball-dominant players could effectively coexist. The initial reaction to the trade was overwhelmingly positive among Pelicans fans, who saw it as a sign that the team was serious about contending for a championship. The prospect of watching Davis and Cousins dominate opposing defenses was tantalizing, and many believed that the Pelicans would become an instant force in the Western Conference. However, the integration of Cousins into the Pelicans' lineup proved to be more challenging than anticipated. Both Davis and Cousins were accustomed to being the focal point of their respective teams' offenses, and adjusting to playing alongside each other required a significant shift in their playing styles. The Pelicans struggled to find a rhythm on offense, as the team's spacing and ball movement suffered. Davis and Cousins often found themselves occupying the same areas on the court, making it difficult for them to operate effectively. Defensively, the Pelicans also faced challenges, as Davis and Cousins were not always on the same page in terms of communication and rotations. Opponents were able to exploit the Pelicans' defensive vulnerabilities, and the team's overall defensive efficiency declined. Despite the challenges, there were moments of brilliance when Davis and Cousins showcased their immense potential as a duo. They displayed flashes of their ability to dominate opponents with their size, skill, and athleticism. However, these moments were too few and far between, as the Pelicans struggled to maintain consistency. The Pelicans' coaching staff worked tirelessly to find ways to maximize the potential of Davis and Cousins, experimenting with different lineups and strategies. They emphasized the importance of spacing, ball movement, and communication, but the team's progress was slow and uneven. As the season drew to a close, the Pelicans' playoff hopes dwindled, and it became clear that the experiment with Davis and Cousins was not an instant success. The team finished the season with a disappointing record and missed the playoffs. The Pelicans' front office faced a difficult decision in the offseason, as they had to determine whether to continue building around Davis and Cousins or explore other options. The team's future hinged on their ability to find a way to make the Davis-Cousins pairing work, but the clock was ticking.

Team Performance and Final Record

Despite the high expectations and the blockbuster trade for DeMarcus Cousins, the New Orleans Pelicans' team performance in the 2016-2017 season ultimately fell short of playoff contention. The Pelicans finished with a final record of 34-48, which placed them tenth in the Western Conference standings. This record was a slight improvement over the previous season, but it was not enough to secure a playoff berth. Throughout the season, the Pelicans struggled with consistency, alternating between stretches of strong play and periods of disappointing losses. The team's inability to string together consistent wins hampered their chances of climbing up the standings. Injuries also played a significant role in the Pelicans' struggles, as several key players were sidelined at various points throughout the season. These injuries disrupted the team's chemistry and made it difficult for them to establish any momentum. The Pelicans' offense was heavily reliant on the scoring of Anthony Davis and, later in the season, DeMarcus Cousins. However, the team often struggled to find consistent offensive contributions from other players, making it difficult to sustain their scoring output. The Pelicans' defense also had its share of challenges, as they struggled to contain opposing offenses on a consistent basis. The team's defensive efficiency ranked in the bottom half of the league, which contributed to their inability to win close games. The arrival of DeMarcus Cousins in the middle of the season was expected to provide a boost to the team's performance, but the integration of Cousins into the lineup proved to be more difficult than anticipated. The Pelicans struggled to find a rhythm with Davis and Cousins playing together, and their chemistry on the court was not always evident. Despite the challenges, there were moments of promise when the Pelicans showcased their potential as a team. They displayed flashes of their ability to compete with the top teams in the league, but they were unable to maintain that level of play consistently. The Pelicans' coaching staff worked tirelessly to find ways to improve the team's performance, but they were ultimately unable to overcome the various obstacles that plagued the team throughout the season. As the season drew to a close, the Pelicans' playoff hopes dwindled, and it became clear that they would once again miss the postseason. The team's disappointing record raised questions about the direction of the franchise and the future of the Davis-Cousins pairing. The Pelicans' front office faced a critical offseason, as they had to make important decisions about the team's roster and coaching staff. The team's success in future seasons would depend on their ability to address the shortcomings that plagued them during the 2016-2017 campaign.

Key Players and Their Contributions

Beyond Anthony Davis, several other key players made significant contributions to the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2016-2017 season. Jrue Holiday, when healthy, provided a steady hand at point guard, averaging 15.4 points and 7.3 assists per game. His ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates was crucial to the Pelicans' offensive success. Holiday's defensive prowess was also valuable, as he consistently guarded the opponent's top perimeter threat. E'Twaun Moore emerged as a reliable scoring option on the wing, averaging 9.6 points per game while shooting a high percentage from beyond the arc. His ability to stretch the floor and knock down open shots provided valuable spacing for Davis and the rest of the team. Terrence Jones, who was signed mid-season, provided a spark off the bench with his energy and athleticism. He averaged 11.5 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, giving the Pelicans a much-needed boost in the frontcourt. Alexis Ajinça served as a valuable backup center, providing solid defense and rebounding in limited minutes. His presence in the paint was important for protecting the rim and securing boards. Dante Cunningham contributed with his versatility and defensive toughness, often guarding multiple positions and providing valuable minutes off the bench. His willingness to do the dirty work and make hustle plays was appreciated by his teammates and coaches. While Buddy Hield showed flashes of potential early in the season, he was ultimately traded to the Sacramento Kings as part of the DeMarcus Cousins deal. However, his scoring ability and shooting prowess were evident, and he had the potential to develop into a valuable player in the future. Tyreke Evans, another player who was traded mid-season, provided a scoring punch off the bench when healthy. However, injuries limited his availability, and he was unable to make a consistent impact on the team. Langston Galloway, also part of the Cousins trade, was a reliable scoring option in the backcourt before being traded. His ability to shoot from beyond the arc and create his own shot was missed by the Pelicans after he was gone. These players, along with others on the roster, contributed to the Pelicans' efforts throughout the season. While their individual performances varied, they all played a role in the team's overall success, or lack thereof. The Pelicans' coaching staff worked to maximize the strengths of each player and find the right combinations that would spark success. However, injuries and inconsistent play ultimately hindered the team's ability to reach its full potential.

Coaching and Management Decisions

Coaching and management decisions played a significant role in the New Orleans Pelicans' 2016-2017 season. Head coach Alvin Gentry faced the challenge of integrating new players into the lineup, managing injuries, and finding the right combinations to maximize the team's potential. Gentry's offensive system, which emphasized pace and spacing, was designed to take advantage of Anthony Davis's versatility and create open looks for shooters. However, the team often struggled to execute the offense consistently, and their scoring output fluctuated throughout the season. Gentry also experimented with different defensive schemes, trying to find the right approach to contain opposing offenses. The Pelicans' defense showed flashes of improvement, but they ultimately struggled to maintain consistency on that end of the court. The mid-season trade for DeMarcus Cousins was a bold move by the Pelicans' management, signaling their commitment to building a contender around Davis. However, the trade also came with risks, as it was uncertain whether Davis and Cousins could effectively coexist on the court. The Pelicans' management also made other roster moves throughout the season, signing and waiving players in an attempt to improve the team's depth and address specific needs. These moves were aimed at finding the right pieces to complement Davis and create a more balanced roster. The Pelicans' coaching staff worked closely with the players to develop their skills and improve their understanding of the team's offensive and defensive systems. They provided individual instruction and guidance, helping the players to refine their games and reach their full potential. The Pelicans' management also focused on building a positive team culture, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, communication, and accountability. They sought to create an environment where players felt valued and supported, which they believed would lead to greater success on the court. However, despite the best efforts of the coaching staff and management, the Pelicans ultimately fell short of their playoff aspirations. The team's struggles with consistency, injuries, and chemistry hindered their ability to reach their full potential. The Pelicans' front office faced a difficult offseason, as they had to evaluate the team's performance and make important decisions about the future. They had to determine whether to continue building around Davis and Cousins or explore other options. The team's success in future seasons would depend on their ability to learn from the mistakes of the 2016-2017 campaign and make the necessary changes to improve the team's overall performance.

Looking Ahead: Lessons Learned and Future Prospects

Looking back at the New Orleans Pelicans' 2017 season, several lessons were learned that would inform the franchise's future decisions. The most prominent takeaway was the challenge of integrating two ball-dominant superstars like Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins in the middle of a season. While the potential was undeniable, the reality required significant adjustments to offensive and defensive schemes, as well as a shift in player roles. The team's struggles to find consistent chemistry highlighted the importance of patience and a long-term approach when building a team around multiple stars. Another key lesson was the need for a deeper and more versatile supporting cast. The Pelicans' over-reliance on Davis and Cousins made them vulnerable when either player was struggling or injured. Building a roster with reliable scoring options, defensive specialists, and playmakers became a priority for future seasons. The importance of health and injury prevention was also underscored, as the Pelicans were plagued by injuries to key players throughout the season. Investing in a comprehensive medical staff and implementing proactive injury prevention strategies became essential. Looking ahead, the Pelicans faced several crucial decisions regarding their roster and coaching staff. The first priority was to re-sign DeMarcus Cousins, who was set to become a free agent in the offseason. Retaining Cousins would allow the Pelicans to continue building around the Davis-Cousins duo and pursue their championship aspirations. However, if Cousins were to leave, the Pelicans would need to explore other options to fill the void in the frontcourt. The Pelicans also needed to address their depth at the guard and wing positions. Adding players who could create their own shot, defend effectively, and knock down open shots would be crucial for improving the team's overall balance and versatility. The development of young players like Cheick Diallo and Frank Jackson was also important for the Pelicans' future. These players had the potential to become valuable contributors, but they needed time and opportunity to develop their skills and gain experience. The Pelicans' coaching staff also needed to continue to refine their offensive and defensive systems to maximize the potential of the roster. Emphasizing ball movement, spacing, and defensive communication would be key for the team's success. Overall, the New Orleans Pelicans' 2017 season served as a valuable learning experience for the franchise. The lessons learned would guide their future decisions and help them to build a more competitive and sustainable team. While the season fell short of expectations, it laid the foundation for future success and provided a glimpse of the potential that existed within the team.