Pelicans 2019 Draft: Who Did They Pick?

Hey sports fans! Let's rewind the clock to the New Orleans Pelicans 2019 draft and break down all the picks. This was a draft with some serious potential, and it's always fun to look back and see how things played out, right? We'll go over the players the Pelicans selected, how they performed, and what impact they had on the team. This is a chance to revisit the decisions the franchise made and analyze what worked, what didn't, and what we can learn from it all. So, grab your popcorn, and let's get started!

The Pelicans' Draft Strategy in 2019

Before we dive into the specific picks, let's chat about the Pelicans' strategy in the 2019 draft. The team was in a pretty interesting spot. They had just acquired a boatload of assets in the blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers. This gave them a ton of flexibility. They could either use those assets to build around Zion Williamson, who they selected with the number one overall pick, or they could trade them to acquire more established talent. Remember, the pressure was on to make smart moves. This draft was a crucial opportunity to add young, talented players to the roster and build a team capable of contending in the Western Conference. They needed to find players who would complement Zion and the other pieces they were putting together. The front office had a tough job ahead, but the potential rewards were huge. So, with that context in mind, let's jump into the picks themselves.

The Pelicans, armed with the fourth overall pick, had a golden opportunity to add another key piece to their young core. The consensus was that this draft class was deep with talent, and the Pelicans were in a prime position to snag a player who could make an immediate impact. The team was looking for players with a mix of skills – scoring, playmaking, defense – to fit alongside Zion. They were also likely considering players who could fill specific needs on the roster. For instance, the Pelicans could have looked at positions where they lacked depth or where they wanted to upgrade their talent level. The draft process involved scouting players extensively, running workouts, and interviewing prospects to assess their character and potential fit with the team. Each pick was a strategic decision that could significantly affect the team's future. The Pelicans' front office had to weigh various factors before making their final selections. They needed to evaluate each player's talent, project how they would develop over time, and consider how they would mesh with the existing roster.

Remember, drafting is never an exact science, and there's always an element of uncertainty. Players can develop in unexpected ways, and sometimes the best prospects don't pan out as expected. This makes the decisions all the more critical. It's a high-stakes game where one pick can change the trajectory of the franchise. The Pelicans' strategy was probably a mix of choosing the best available player and addressing specific needs. It's safe to say they were aiming for a balance of immediate impact and long-term potential. They wanted to make selections that would not only help the team win games in the short term but also set the stage for sustained success in the future. The pressure was on to make the right calls. The decisions made during the 2019 draft would have a lasting impact on the team, shaping its identity and determining its competitiveness for years to come.

The Draft Picks: Who Did They Select?

Alright, let's get to the juicy part – the players! The New Orleans Pelicans had a few picks in the 2019 draft, and each selection came with its own set of expectations and potential. This is where the rubber meets the road. We'll examine each pick, their strengths, and weaknesses, and how their careers unfolded after being drafted by the Pelicans. Were they hits or misses? Did they live up to the hype, or did they fall short of expectations? Let's find out! It's always interesting to see how players develop and how their skills translate to the NBA level. So, let's break it down pick by pick.

Number 1 Overall: Zion Williamson

Okay, everyone knew this one was coming! The New Orleans Pelicans selected Zion Williamson with the first overall pick. This was a no-brainer for the Pelicans. Zion was the most hyped prospect since LeBron James. He was a dominant force at Duke, captivating the nation with his incredible athleticism and highlight-reel plays. His potential was through the roof, and the Pelicans were thrilled to add him to their roster. Zion's combination of power, agility, and skill was truly unique. He was expected to be a franchise player, a cornerstone around which the Pelicans could build a championship team. His arrival in New Orleans generated a ton of excitement, and fans were eager to see him in action. But there were also questions about his durability, given his playing style and history of injuries.

Zion's career with the Pelicans has been a rollercoaster. When he's on the court, he's virtually unstoppable. He's a walking highlight reel, capable of scoring in a variety of ways. His ability to finish at the rim and create mismatches is a huge advantage for the Pelicans. However, injuries have plagued his career, preventing him from reaching his full potential. He's missed significant time due to various ailments, which has hindered his development and the team's ability to build around him consistently. When he's available, he's a game-changer, but staying healthy has been a challenge. He still has the potential to be a superstar, but he needs to stay on the court to make it happen. The Pelicans are hoping Zion can put together a healthy season and lead them to the playoffs. They know they have a special talent in Zion. It's just a matter of keeping him on the court consistently.

Number 8 Overall: Jaxson Hayes

With the eighth overall pick, the Pelicans selected Jaxson Hayes. Hayes was a raw but intriguing prospect out of Texas. He was known for his athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and potential as a rim-runner. The Pelicans saw him as a player who could develop into a valuable piece for their frontcourt. He had a lot of upside, and the team was hoping to mold him into a key contributor. He was a project, but his physical tools and potential were undeniable. However, consistency and decision-making have been issues for him throughout his career. Hayes has shown flashes of brilliance, but he hasn't always lived up to the expectations that come with being a top-10 pick. He was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2023 offseason. The jury is still out on whether Hayes will fully realize his potential. He's been inconsistent and hasn't yet become the dominant force the Pelicans hoped he would be.

Hayes's career has been a bit of a mixed bag. He has the physical tools to be an impactful player, but his development hasn't been linear. At times, he has shown flashes of what he's capable of. The Pelicans were hoping to see a more consistent level of play. He has the athleticism to protect the rim and finish plays around the basket, but he needs to refine his skills and improve his decision-making. He struggled with foul trouble and defensive consistency during his time with the Pelicans. The team invested time and resources in his development, hoping he would become a reliable contributor. The Lakers are now trying to unlock that potential. He still has time to improve. It remains to be seen if he will ever reach the level of play that was envisioned when he was drafted. His time with the Pelicans was marked by both promise and frustration.

Number 17 Overall: Nickeil Alexander-Walker

With the 17th pick, the Pelicans selected Nickeil Alexander-Walker. This was a pick that offered a good blend of potential and immediate contribution. Alexander-Walker was a scoring guard with a smooth game and a knack for creating his own shot. The Pelicans were looking for a player who could provide some offensive punch off the bench, and Alexander-Walker fit the bill. He was seen as a versatile player who could play multiple positions and contribute in a variety of ways. His shooting ability was a key asset. The Pelicans hoped he could develop into a reliable scorer and playmaker. His offensive skills made him a valuable addition to the roster.

Alexander-Walker showed flashes of potential during his time with the Pelicans, but he was also somewhat inconsistent. He was a streaky shooter. The team traded him to the Portland Trail Blazers. He has shown glimpses of the player he could become. He has the tools to be a solid NBA player, and the hope is that he can find a more consistent role in the league. His time with the Pelicans was marked by both moments of brilliance and stretches of inconsistency. He has the talent to be a valuable player. The challenge for him will be to put it all together consistently.

Number 39 Overall: Didi Louzada

The Pelicans selected Didi Louzada with the 39th overall pick. He was a draft-and-stash player. Louzada was a young, athletic wing from Brazil. This was a low-risk, high-reward pick for the Pelicans. The team was hoping he could develop into a solid role player. He spent some time playing overseas before eventually joining the Pelicans. The goal was to give him time to develop his skills and adjust to the NBA game.

Louzada's time in New Orleans was short-lived. He was waived by the team. He had some trouble finding his footing in the NBA. He played limited minutes and didn't make much of an impact. He struggled to earn a consistent role on the team. He was eventually traded to the Portland Trail Blazers and then the Phoenix Suns. His NBA career hasn't quite taken off as of yet, but he still has time to prove himself. The Pelicans were hoping to unearth a hidden gem. His time with the team didn't yield the results they hoped for. He didn't make a significant impact during his time with the team.

Assessing the 2019 Draft: Hits and Misses

Now, let's take a step back and assess the 2019 draft for the Pelicans. How did they do? Did they make the right choices? What were the hits, and what were the misses? It's time to evaluate the draft class as a whole and see how it impacted the team's trajectory. This is a critical exercise. Analyzing past decisions is always important. This helps us understand what worked, what didn't, and what the Pelicans could have done differently. Evaluating the draft helps to evaluate the team's talent acquisition strategy. It gives us a clearer picture of the successes and failures.

The Zion Factor

Zion Williamson was an obvious hit for the Pelicans. When he's on the court, he's a force to be reckoned with. He has the potential to be a superstar and a franchise player. The challenge is keeping him healthy. His impact on the court is undeniable, but his frequent injuries have hindered his ability to reach his full potential and lead the team. The Pelicans were thrilled to add a player with his talent, and he's still a cornerstone of the franchise.

The Hayes Question

Jaxson Hayes has been a mixed bag. He has shown flashes of potential, but his inconsistency has been frustrating. He hasn't yet lived up to the expectations that come with being a top-10 pick. He was traded to the Lakers. The jury is still out on whether he will ever become a consistent and reliable player. The Pelicans were hoping for more from Hayes, and his development has been slower than expected.

The Alexander-Walker Verdict

Nickeil Alexander-Walker showed some promise but didn't consistently deliver. He was a versatile player with scoring ability. However, he was traded to the Trail Blazers. He was a bit inconsistent during his time in New Orleans. The Pelicans hoped for more consistency from him. He showed flashes of what he could become, but he never fully put it all together.

The Louzada Assessment

Didi Louzada didn't make much of an impact with the Pelicans. He was a draft-and-stash player who didn't get much playing time. He was waived by the team. He didn't have a significant role during his time with the Pelicans. This pick was a low-risk, low-reward move, and it didn't pan out.

The Long-Term Impact

Looking beyond the individual players, let's consider the long-term impact of the 2019 draft on the New Orleans Pelicans. How did these picks shape the team's future? Did they provide a solid foundation for success? Did the Pelicans acquire players who would become core pieces of a championship-contending team? The draft class of 2019 has had a lasting effect on the team's identity. This will affect their performance for years to come. Let's dig deeper into the bigger picture.

Building Around Zion

The most significant impact of the draft was undoubtedly the selection of Zion Williamson. He was the centerpiece of the Pelicans' rebuild. The team was hoping to build around him. The goal was to put together a roster that would complement his unique skill set and maximize his potential.

Adding Supporting Pieces

While the other picks didn't have the same level of impact as Zion, they still played a role in shaping the team. The Pelicans hoped that players like Jaxson Hayes and Nickeil Alexander-Walker could become valuable contributors. They hoped they could provide depth and support Zion. These players were meant to be part of the supporting cast around Zion.

The Road Ahead

The 2019 draft set the stage for the future of the Pelicans. The team is still striving to build a successful team around Zion. The franchise is hoping to build a roster capable of competing for championships. The 2019 draft was a key moment in their ongoing journey. It was a crucial step in the team's evolution. The Pelicans are still working to reach their full potential. They have a talented roster. The goal is to compete for championships in the years to come. The goal is to make the playoffs. They hope to be a perennial contender in the Western Conference. The decisions made during the 2019 draft had a big influence on the team's trajectory. The team's goal is to keep improving. The goal is to maximize their chances of success. The Pelicans are looking to build a championship team around Zion Williamson. The process is ongoing, but the 2019 draft was a crucial part of the process. The team's future is still being shaped by the decisions made during that draft.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, folks! A comprehensive look back at the New Orleans Pelicans' 2019 draft. It was a draft with high expectations and some interesting results. The selection of Zion Williamson was a home run. The other picks, meanwhile, had mixed results. This draft shaped the team's direction and influenced their trajectory. It's always fun to revisit these moments in NBA history. It gives us a clearer picture of what the team was trying to accomplish. We can also see how their plans played out. The Pelicans are still working to build a winning team. The 2019 draft was an important part of their journey. Thanks for joining me on this trip down memory lane. Until next time, keep cheering for your favorite team, and let's see what the future holds!