New Orleans Pelicans 2019 Roster: A Deep Dive

The 2019 New Orleans Pelicans roster marked a significant turning point for the franchise. After years of playoff contention led by Anthony Davis, the team entered a rebuilding phase, fueled by a blockbuster trade that sent Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers. This roster was a blend of young, promising talent acquired through the draft and trades, alongside veteran players who provided leadership and experience. Let's dive deep into the players who made up this pivotal Pelicans team.

Key Players and Their Impact

Leading the charge was Jrue Holiday, the veteran point guard who remained a cornerstone of the team despite the changing landscape. Holiday's leadership, defensive prowess, and playmaking abilities were crucial in guiding the young Pelicans. He averaged 19.1 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game, showcasing his all-around impact. His ability to create opportunities for his teammates and his tenacity on the defensive end made him an invaluable asset. Holiday's experience and guidance were essential in helping the younger players develop and adjust to the NBA game. He was not just a player; he was a mentor and a leader both on and off the court. His contributions extended beyond the stat sheet, fostering a culture of hard work and dedication within the team. The Pelicans relied on Holiday to set the tone and lead by example, making him a critical figure during this transitional period. His presence provided stability and a sense of direction for a team that was otherwise undergoing significant changes. He was the bridge between the past and the future, helping to navigate the team through a period of uncertainty and rebuild.

The arrival of Zion Williamson, the highly touted number one overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft, injected excitement and hope into the franchise. Although his rookie season was delayed due to injury, the anticipation surrounding his debut was palpable. Williamson's unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill promised to transform the Pelicans into a dynamic and exciting team. When he finally took the court, he did not disappoint, averaging 23.6 points and 6.8 rebounds in just 24 games. His explosive scoring ability and highlight-reel dunks quickly made him a fan favorite. Williamson's impact extended beyond his individual performance, energizing the entire team and creating a buzz around the Pelicans. His presence drew attention from fans and media alike, putting the Pelicans back on the map. The team's future was now firmly tied to Williamson's development, and the organization was committed to building a roster around him. His arrival marked the beginning of a new era for the Pelicans, one filled with optimism and the potential for greatness. Despite the initial injury setback, Williamson's talent and potential were undeniable, making him the focal point of the team's rebuilding efforts.

Brandon Ingram, acquired in the Anthony Davis trade, emerged as a breakout star during the 2019-2020 season. He showcased significant improvement in his scoring, shooting, and playmaking abilities, earning his first All-Star selection. Ingram's smooth offensive game and versatility made him a difficult matchup for opponents. He averaged 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, establishing himself as a key component of the Pelicans' future. His development was a testament to his hard work and the coaching staff's ability to unlock his potential. Ingram's emergence as a star provided the Pelicans with a valuable building block alongside Williamson. His ability to create his own shot and score in a variety of ways made him a valuable offensive weapon. Ingram's growth also helped to alleviate some of the pressure on Williamson, allowing the two young stars to complement each other. His All-Star selection validated his progress and solidified his place as a cornerstone of the franchise. Ingram's journey from a promising prospect to an All-Star player was a significant boost for the Pelicans' rebuilding efforts.

Role Players and Contributions

Lonzo Ball, another key acquisition in the Davis trade, brought his unique playmaking and defensive skills to the Pelicans. While his shooting remained inconsistent, his ability to push the pace and find open teammates was valuable. Ball averaged 11.8 points, 7.0 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game, showcasing his all-around contributions. His court vision and passing ability were instrumental in creating easy scoring opportunities for his teammates. Ball's defensive prowess also helped to disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers. His presence provided the Pelicans with a dynamic point guard who could impact the game in multiple ways. While he continued to work on his shooting, his other skills made him a valuable asset to the team. Ball's ability to control the tempo of the game and make smart decisions was crucial in helping the Pelicans compete. His development was a key focus for the coaching staff, as they looked to unlock his full potential and help him become a more complete player. Ball's playmaking and defensive abilities made him a valuable contributor to the Pelicans' rebuilding efforts.

Josh Hart, also acquired in the Davis trade, quickly became a fan favorite due to his energy, hustle, and rebounding. He provided valuable minutes off the bench, averaging 10.1 points and 6.5 rebounds per game. Hart's relentless effort and willingness to do the dirty work made him a valuable role player. His ability to grab offensive rebounds and score in transition provided a spark for the Pelicans' offense. Hart's defensive intensity also helped to disrupt opposing offenses and create turnovers. His contributions off the bench were crucial in providing the Pelicans with a boost of energy and productivity. Hart's hard-nosed style of play endeared him to fans and made him a valuable member of the team. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways made him a reliable and consistent contributor. Hart's energy and hustle were infectious, helping to elevate the play of his teammates. His role as a spark plug off the bench was essential in providing the Pelicans with a competitive edge.

J.J. Redick, a veteran sharpshooter, provided valuable floor spacing and scoring off the bench. His elite shooting ability and experience were crucial in helping the Pelicans' offense. He averaged 15.3 points per game, shooting 45.3% from three-point range. Redick's presence stretched opposing defenses and created more space for Williamson and Ingram to operate. His veteran leadership and experience also provided valuable guidance for the younger players. Redick's ability to knock down shots in crucial moments made him a valuable asset in close games. His presence on the court forced opposing defenses to pay attention, creating opportunities for his teammates. Redick's shooting prowess and veteran savvy were essential in providing the Pelicans with a reliable offensive threat. His leadership and experience were also invaluable in helping the younger players develop and learn the nuances of the NBA game.

Coaching and Strategy

Alvin Gentry served as the head coach of the Pelicans during the 2019-2020 season. His offensive-minded approach aimed to maximize the team's scoring potential. Gentry's focus on pace and space allowed the Pelicans to play an exciting and up-tempo style of basketball. He emphasized player development and worked to create a positive environment for the young players to grow. Gentry's experience and knowledge of the game were valuable in guiding the team through a period of transition. However, the Pelicans struggled to find consistency on the defensive end, which ultimately led to Gentry's departure after the season. Despite the challenges, Gentry's focus on player development and offensive creativity helped to lay the foundation for the Pelicans' future success. His ability to connect with the players and create a positive atmosphere was instrumental in fostering a sense of teamwork and camaraderie. Gentry's contributions to the Pelicans' organization should not be overlooked, as he played a key role in developing the young talent that would eventually lead the team to future success.

The Pelicans' strategy revolved around developing their young core and building a team around Williamson and Ingram. The team focused on improving their defense and creating a more balanced attack. The coaching staff worked to instill a culture of hard work, dedication, and accountability. The Pelicans aimed to compete for a playoff spot in the future, but the primary focus was on developing their young players and building a sustainable foundation for long-term success. The organization was committed to providing the necessary resources and support to help the players reach their full potential. The Pelicans' strategy was centered on patience and long-term planning, recognizing that it would take time to build a championship-caliber team. The team's focus on player development and building a strong culture was essential in laying the groundwork for future success.

Final Thoughts

The 2019 New Orleans Pelicans roster represented a new beginning for the franchise. The combination of young talent and veteran leadership provided a foundation for future growth. While the team faced challenges and experienced growing pains, the potential for success was evident. The emergence of Ingram as an All-Star, the arrival of Williamson, and the contributions of other key players gave Pelicans fans reason for optimism. The 2019-2020 season was a stepping stone towards building a competitive and sustainable team. The Pelicans' focus on player development and building a strong culture was crucial in laying the groundwork for future success. The organization's commitment to providing the necessary resources and support to help the players reach their full potential was essential in creating a positive environment for growth. The 2019 New Orleans Pelicans roster may not have achieved immediate success, but it represented a significant turning point in the franchise's history and set the stage for a bright future. The team's journey was just beginning, and the potential for greatness was within reach.