New Orleans Pelicans 2021 Roster: Players & Analysis

Let's dive deep into the 2021 New Orleans Pelicans roster, guys! This was a season of high expectations and some pretty exciting basketball, so let's break down the team, the key players, and what made them tick. We will explore the players that defined the season, offering insights into their roles, strengths, and contributions. Whether you're a die-hard Pelicans fan or just curious about the team, this is your ultimate guide to understanding the 2021 New Orleans Pelicans.

Point Guards

The point guard position is crucial for any successful NBA team, and in 2021, the Pelicans had a few options running the show. Eric Bledsoe was the primary point guard. Bledsoe brought veteran experience and defensive intensity to the team. Known for his ability to attack the basket and create opportunities for his teammates, Bledsoe was expected to be a key facilitator for the Pelicans' offense. His speed and agility made him a threat in transition, and his defensive prowess helped set the tone on the other end of the court. However, his inconsistent shooting and tendency to turn the ball over at times frustrated fans and coaches alike. Despite his strengths, Bledsoe's fit within the team's long-term plans was often questioned, leading to speculation about potential trades and roster changes. Overall, Bledsoe's tenure with the Pelicans was marked by flashes of brilliance mixed with periods of inconsistency, making him a somewhat polarizing figure among fans.

Another notable player in the point guard rotation was Kira Lewis Jr., a promising young talent with a lot of potential. Lewis Jr. offered a different dynamic with his blazing speed and scoring ability. As a rookie, Lewis Jr. showed glimpses of his potential, with his lightning-quick drives to the basket and ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc. While still raw and needing development, his athleticism and scoring touch made him an exciting prospect for the future. The Pelicans hoped that Lewis Jr. could develop into a key contributor off the bench, providing a spark on offense and learning from the veteran players around him. His development was seen as crucial to the team's long-term success, and the coaching staff focused on honing his skills and helping him adapt to the NBA game. Despite his limited playing time, Lewis Jr. made the most of his opportunities, showcasing his potential and leaving fans eager to see his growth in the seasons to come. His speed and youthful energy provided a contrast to Bledsoe's more experienced and deliberate style of play, giving the Pelicans different options at the point guard position.

Shooting Guards

At the shooting guard position, the Pelicans had a mix of players who brought different skills to the court. JJ Redick, a seasoned veteran known for his exceptional shooting, was a key part of the Pelicans' offense. Redick's ability to space the floor and knock down shots from beyond the arc made him a valuable asset. His veteran presence and leadership were also important for guiding the younger players on the team. Redick's role was primarily to provide instant offense off the bench and stretch the defense, creating opportunities for Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram to operate in the paint. However, his defensive limitations were often exploited by opposing teams, making him a liability on that end of the court. Despite his defensive shortcomings, Redick's shooting prowess and veteran savvy made him a valuable contributor to the Pelicans' offense.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker also saw significant time at the shooting guard position, showcasing his versatility and scoring ability. Alexander-Walker demonstrated his potential as a scorer and playmaker. With his ability to create his own shot and make plays for others, Alexander-Walker was expected to be a key contributor off the bench. His confidence and willingness to take big shots made him a valuable asset in crunch time. However, his consistency and decision-making needed improvement as he continued to develop. The Pelicans hoped that Alexander-Walker could blossom into a reliable scorer and playmaker, adding depth and versatility to their backcourt rotation. His offensive skills and athleticism gave the Pelicans a dynamic option at the shooting guard position, complementing Redick's more specialized role as a shooter.

Small Forwards

The small forward position was anchored by Brandon Ingram, who had an All-Star caliber season. Ingram emerged as a star, showcasing his scoring prowess and playmaking ability. His smooth offensive game and improved three-point shooting made him a nightmare for opposing defenders. Ingram's ability to create his own shot and score in a variety of ways made him the focal point of the Pelicans' offense. Defensively, he showed improvement, becoming a more engaged and effective defender. The Pelicans relied heavily on Ingram to carry the scoring load, and he consistently delivered, earning his first All-Star selection. His growth and development were seen as crucial to the team's success, and he embraced the role of a leader on and off the court. Ingram's presence at the small forward position provided the Pelicans with a dynamic and versatile offensive threat, making him one of the team's most valuable players.

Power Forwards

Zion Williamson primarily played at the power forward position. Williamson was a force of nature, dominating opponents with his incredible athleticism and scoring ability. His combination of size, strength, and agility made him virtually unstoppable in the paint. Williamson's ability to finish at the rim and draw fouls made him a constant threat to score. Despite his dominance on offense, his defensive awareness and rebounding needed improvement. The Pelicans built their offense around Williamson, and he consistently delivered highlight-reel plays and impressive scoring performances. His presence transformed the team into a must-watch attraction, and his potential was seen as limitless. Williamson's impact at the power forward position was undeniable, making him one of the league's most exciting young stars.

Centers

The center position saw Steven Adams filling the role. Adams brought toughness, rebounding, and interior defense to the Pelicans. Known for his strength and physicality, Adams was a valuable presence in the paint. His ability to set screens, grab rebounds, and protect the rim made him an important part of the team's defensive identity. Offensively, Adams was primarily a finisher around the basket, relying on his strength and positioning to score. While not a flashy player, Adams provided the Pelicans with a reliable and experienced center who could anchor their defense and contribute on the boards. His veteran leadership and work ethic were also valuable assets, setting an example for the younger players on the team. Adams' presence at the center position gave the Pelicans a solid foundation in the frontcourt, complementing the scoring abilities of Williamson and Ingram.

Other Notable Players

Several other players contributed to the 2021 Pelicans roster, each bringing their unique skills and abilities. Josh Hart provided energy, rebounding, and defensive versatility off the bench. Hart's hustle and tenacity made him a valuable role player, capable of guarding multiple positions and contributing on both ends of the court. His rebounding prowess was particularly impressive for a guard, and he often came up with key offensive rebounds to extend possessions. Hart's energy and effort were contagious, and he quickly became a fan favorite in New Orleans. His ability to impact the game in a variety of ways made him a valuable asset to the Pelicans' rotation. Whether it was diving for loose balls, knocking down open shots, or locking down opponents on defense, Hart consistently made positive contributions to the team.

Willy Hernangómez provided valuable minutes as a backup center. Hernangómez brought size, rebounding, and a soft touch around the basket. His ability to score in the paint and grab rebounds made him a reliable option off the bench. Hernangómez also provided valuable energy and enthusiasm, often sparking the team with his hustle and effort. While he may not have been a star player, Hernangómez consistently made the most of his opportunities, contributing valuable minutes and providing depth in the frontcourt. His presence allowed the Pelicans to rest Adams without sacrificing size and rebounding ability. Hernangómez's contributions were often overlooked, but he played an important role in the team's overall success.

Final Thoughts

The 2021 New Orleans Pelicans roster had a lot of talent and potential, guys. With stars like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram leading the way, the team was exciting to watch, and they certainly had high hopes for the future. Although they did not reach the playoffs, the season provided valuable experience for the young core, and the team showed flashes of brilliance. The development of players like Kira Lewis Jr. and Nickeil Alexander-Walker was also encouraging, suggesting that the Pelicans had a bright future ahead. While there were certainly areas for improvement, such as defensive consistency and three-point shooting, the 2021 season laid a foundation for future success. With continued growth and development, the Pelicans could become a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference. The combination of young talent and veteran leadership provided a solid base for the team to build upon, and fans eagerly anticipated what the future held for the New Orleans Pelicans. Overall, the 2021 season was a stepping stone towards greater achievements, and the Pelicans were poised to make significant strides in the years to come.