The New Orleans Pelicans have a rich history that dates back to 1988 when the franchise was founded as the Charlotte Hornets. The team moved to New Orleans in 2002 and became the New Orleans Hornets, before changing their name to the Pelicans in 2013. Over the years, the team has had its fair share of ups and downs, but through it all, they have always had a loyal fan base that has stuck with them through thick and thin.
The Pelicans have made the playoffs nine times in their history, with their best season coming in 2007-2008 when they won the Southwest Division and made it to the Western Conference Semifinals. The team has had some legendary players wear their jersey over the years, and without further ado, here are the best players in Pelicans franchise history.
Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis is arguably the best player in Pelicans history. He was drafted first overall by the team in 2012 and quickly established himself as one of the best players in the league. Davis was a six-time All-Star and a three-time All-NBA First Team selection during his time with the Pelicans. He helped lead the team to two playoff appearances, including a trip to the Western Conference Semifinals in 2018.
Davis was known for his incredible athleticism and versatility on both ends of the court. He could score from anywhere on the floor and was a dominant force on defense. In his seven seasons with the Pelicans, he averaged 23.7 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game.
Chris Paul
Chris Paul played for the New Orleans Hornets from 2005 to 2011 and is widely considered one of the best point guards in NBA history. He was a four-time All-Star and a two-time All-NBA First Team selection during his time with the team. Paul led the Hornets to the playoffs three times and was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2006.
Paul was known for his incredible passing ability and his tenacious defense. He averaged 18.7 points, 9.9 assists, and 2.4 steals per game during his time with the Hornets.
David West
David West played for the New Orleans Hornets from 2003 to 2011 and was one of the team’s most consistent players during that time. He was a two-time All-Star and a two-time All-NBA Third Team selection. West helped lead the Hornets to the playoffs three times, including a trip to the Western Conference Semifinals in 2008.
West was known for his mid-range jump shot and his toughness on the court. He averaged 16.4 points and 7.3 rebounds per game during his time with the Hornets.
Jrue Holiday
Jrue Holiday played for the New Orleans Pelicans from 2013 to 2020 and was one of the team’s most reliable players during that time. He was a one-time All-Star and a two-time All-Defensive First Team selection. Holiday helped lead the Pelicans to the playoffs twice and was known for his clutch performances in big games.
Holiday was known for his versatility on both ends of the court. He could score from anywhere on the floor and was a lockdown defender. In his seven seasons with the Pelicans, he averaged 16.8 points, 6.4 assists, and 1.4 steals per game.
Jamal Mashburn
Jamal Mashburn played for the New Orleans Hornets from 1997 to 2000 and was one of the team’s most talented players during that time. He was a one-time All-Star and helped lead the Hornets to the playoffs in 1998. Mashburn was known for his scoring ability and his ability to create his own shot.
Mashburn averaged 19.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game during his time with the Hornets.
Baron Davis
Baron Davis played for the New Orleans Hornets from 2002 to 2005 and was one of the team’s most electrifying players during that time. He was a one-time All-Star and helped lead the Hornets to the playoffs in 2003. Davis was known for his athleticism and his ability to make highlight-reel plays.
Davis averaged 19.3 points, 7.5 assists, and 2.3 steals per game during his time with the Hornets.
Zion Williamson
Zion Williamson is a current player for the New Orleans Pelicans and is already making a name for himself in the league. He was drafted first overall by the team in 2019 and has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young players in the NBA. Williamson was a finalist for the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2020 and was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team.
Williamson is known for his incredible athleticism and his ability to finish around the rim. He averaged 22.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game during his rookie season and is expected to be a cornerstone of the Pelicans franchise for years to come.
Honorable Mentions
In addition to the players listed above, there have been several other great players to wear the New Orleans Pelicans jersey over the years. Some of the honorable mentions include:
