Anthony Davis' Team In 2017: A Look Back

What team did Anthony Davis play for in 2017? That's a question many NBA fans might ponder, especially when reminiscing about that exciting season. Well, guys, when the calendar flipped to 2017, Anthony Davis was firmly planted as the cornerstone of the New Orleans Pelicans. He wasn't just a player; he was the guy, the franchise player carrying the hopes of the Big Easy on his broad shoulders. This was a period where AD was really solidifying his status as one of the league's premier big men, showcasing an offensive arsenal and defensive impact that few could match. His presence alone transformed the Pelicans from a team with potential into a legitimate threat when healthy. We're talking about a player who, even back then, was already putting up monster numbers, averaging close to a double-double with significant scoring and blocks. The 2016-2017 NBA season saw Anthony Davis continue his ascent, and the Pelicans were his home. He was the undisputed leader, the focal point of their offense, and the defensive anchor in the paint. It’s easy to forget just how dominant he was becoming, especially in an era where versatility in big men was becoming increasingly crucial. Davis embodied that, with his ability to score from anywhere on the court, rebound with ferocity, and protect the rim with his exceptional length and timing. The narrative around the Pelicans in 2017 was heavily intertwined with AD's performance, and rightfully so. He was the engine driving their success, and his health was always the biggest question mark surrounding the team's prospects. When he was on the court, the Pelicans were a different team, capable of competing with the best in the Western Conference. His impact wasn't just statistical; it was the gravity he commanded on the floor, opening up opportunities for his teammates and forcing opposing defenses into difficult adjustments. The 2017 portion of that season was a testament to his individual brilliance, even if team success wasn't always consistent. He was the undisputed star, the face of the franchise, and the player everyone was watching.

The Pelicans Era: AD's Dominance Unfolding

So, to be crystal clear, in 2017, Anthony Davis was a member of the New Orleans Pelicans. This was a critical time in his career, a period where he was truly blossoming into the superstar we know today. He had already been drafted by the Pelicans in 2012, and by 2017, he was well into establishing himself as the face of the franchise. Think about it, guys: this was a team built around his immense talent. The Pelicans were hoping to leverage his incredible all-around game to build a consistent contender in the tough Western Conference. And AD delivered, big time. His stats during this period were nothing short of spectacular. We're talking about averages that often flirted with or surpassed 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 2-3 blocks per game. He was a force in the paint, a legitimate threat from the mid-range, and even developing his three-point shot. What made him so special was his unique blend of size, athleticism, and skill. He could bang down low with the strongest centers, yet he had the agility and finesse to play on the perimeter. Defensively, he was an absolute game-changer, altering shots and anchoring the Pelicans' defense. The 2016-2017 season, which encompasses the 2017 calendar year, was a prime example of his individual brilliance. Despite facing injuries that sometimes hampered the team's overall success, Davis consistently put up elite numbers. He was the engine that drove the Pelicans, and his performance was often the sole determinant of their win-loss record. It's important to remember that the Pelicans, while having other talented players, were fundamentally Anthony Davis' team. Every strategy, every play call, often revolved around maximizing his impact. This kind of singular focus on a superstar is common in the NBA, but with AD, it felt different. His versatility meant he could impact the game in so many ways, from scoring and rebounding to playmaking and rim protection. He was the definition of a two-way force, and his presence on the court elevated everyone around him. Fans in New Orleans adored him, and the energy he brought to the Smoothie King Center was palpable. He represented the team's hope for future success, and his commitment to the franchise was evident in his relentless effort every single night. The 2017 portion of his tenure with the Pelicans was a clear indicator of his trajectory towards superstardom, showcasing the skills and dedication that would make him one of the league's most coveted players.

Navigating the 2016-2017 Season

When we talk about Anthony Davis in 2017, we're primarily looking at the tail end of the 2016-2017 NBA season. This season was a significant one for both AD and the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite some challenges, including injuries that plagued the team, Davis was a dominant force. He was averaging remarkable numbers, showcasing his complete game. We're talking about a player who was consistently putting up stats that put him in the conversation for best big man in the league, and perhaps even best player. His scoring was elite, his rebounding tenacious, and his defensive presence, particularly his shot-blocking, was game-changing. The Pelicans, in 2017, were heavily reliant on his performance. He was the unquestioned leader and the primary offensive weapon. While the team struggled to find consistent success and often found themselves on the outside looking in at the playoff picture, AD's individual play was exceptional. He was a one-man wrecking crew at times, carrying the team offensively and making crucial defensive plays. His versatility was on full display; he could score inside, hit jumpers, and battle down low. This season was a testament to his drive and talent, proving he could carry a significant load. The narrative surrounding the Pelicans in 2017 was intrinsically linked to AD's health and performance. When he was on the court, they were a competitive team capable of beating anyone. When he was sidelined, their struggles were often magnified. This is the reality for many franchises built around a singular superstar. The fans in New Orleans understood this, and they rallied behind their star. His commitment to giving his all, night in and night out, was evident. Even though the team's overall record might not have reflected his individual brilliance, his impact on the game was undeniable. He was a walking double-double, a defensive anchor, and a player who could take over games. The 2017 calendar year, within that season, was a period where Anthony Davis continued to etch his name in the league's record books and cement his status as a perennial All-Star and a future Hall of Famer. His performance during this time was a clear indication of the potential he held and the foundation upon which the Pelicans hoped to build a championship contender. It was a showcase of his all-around game and his ability to consistently deliver at an elite level, despite the team's challenges.

Beyond 2017: A Legacy in Motion

While the question specifically asks about Anthony Davis' team in 2017, which was the New Orleans Pelicans, it's worth acknowledging that his career has seen a significant shift since then. After years of incredible individual performance and dedication to the Pelicans, Davis was eventually traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019. This move marked a new chapter, where he teamed up with LeBron James to form one of the most formidable duos in the NBA. Together, they achieved the ultimate prize: an NBA championship in the 2019-2020 season. The impact of Anthony Davis since 2017 has been profound. He continued to develop his game, adding even more to his already impressive skill set. His defensive prowess remained elite, and his offensive game became more refined, particularly his jump shot and his ability to play both inside and out. The move to Los Angeles allowed him to compete for championships consistently, something that had been a challenge for him in New Orleans. While his time with the Pelicans was marked by incredible individual achievements and flashes of brilliance, the Lakers provided the platform for him to reach the pinnacle of team success. However, it's crucial to remember his roots and the foundational years of his career. The Pelicans were where he honed his skills, became a star, and established himself as one of the league's most dominant players. The 2017 period, specifically, represents a time when he was the undisputed leader of that team, carrying the franchise on his back. His performances during that era laid the groundwork for the superstar status he enjoys today. The trade to the Lakers didn't erase his contributions to New Orleans; it simply shifted the landscape of his career. He continued to be a player who impacts the game on both ends of the court at an exceptionally high level. His legacy is now a blend of his individual brilliance in New Orleans and his championship success in Los Angeles. Fans who followed him in 2017 saw the raw talent and the immense potential. Fans today see a proven champion and one of the game's all-time great big men. The journey from being the face of the Pelicans to a championship-winning Laker is a testament to his enduring talent and his commitment to winning.