You Probably Forgot These Players Suited Up for the Pelicans

When you think of the Pelicans, you probably think of players like Anthony Davis, Zion Williamson, and Chris Paul.

However, it’s easy to forget that many high-profile players once suited up for New Orleans at some point during their careers.

Let’s look at three players you likely forgot played for the Pelicans.

Julius Randle (2018-2019)

Before competing for a championship with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Julius Randle had a brief stint in New Orleans that ultimately changed the course of his career.

Once a highly ranked prospect, Randle had a few underwhelming seasons with the L.A. Lakers and was looking for a change of scenery. Meanwhile, the Pelicans, coming off a tough series loss to the Warriors, sought to replace the injured DeMarcus Cousins. They took a chance on Randle, signing him to a two-year, $18 million deal that included a player option.

Randle went on to have a bounce-back season in New Orleans. He averaged 21.4 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in his lone season with the Pelicans.

Randle capitalized on his career-reviving season with the Pelicans, as he declined his player option and signed with the New York Knicks on a three-year, $36 million deal.

Since leaving the Pelicans, Randle has made three All-Star teams and been named the NBA’s Most Improved Player.

Buddy Hield (2016-17)

It feels like ages ago when the Pelicans drafted Oklahoma star Buddy Hield with the sixth pick in the 2016 NBA Draft.

While his elite shooting ability made Hield an intriguing pick at the time, it’s hard to justify his draft selection now. Players selected after Hield include All-Stars Jamal Murray, Domantas Sabonis, Pascal Siakam, and Dejounte Murray.

Hield’s brief stint with the Pelicans was underwhelming to say the least. In 57 games, he averaged a modest 8.6 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while shooting 37% from three.

Not even halfway through his rookie season, Hield was traded to the Sacramento Kings as part of the franchise-changing deal that brought DeMarcus Cousins to New Orleans.

Since leaving the Pelicans, Hield has been an efficient microwave shooter at every stop he’s been at. He’s bounced around the league since, with stops in Sacramento, Indiana, Philadelphia, and now Golden State.

Lance Stephenson (2016)

For a fleeting moment, Lance Stephenson brought his goofy antics to the Big Easy.

In the 2016-17 season, the Pelicans were looking for help at guard and took a flyer on Stephenson. In total, he played six games for the Pelicans, averaging ten points, five assists, and three rebounds a game.

He was a decent bench scorer during his brief time with the Pelicans, and his emphatic energy instantly made him a fan favorite. Unfortunately, a groin injury derailed his stint in New Orleans, and he was ultimately released from the team.

After leaving the Pelicans, Stephenson moved from team to team. He last played for the Indianapolis Pacers in 2021. Though he’s still playing professionally, at 34 years old, Stephenson’s NBA days are likely behind him.

He will be remembered among diehard fans as one of the most entertaining players in NBA history.

Final Thoughts

New Orleans has never been an ideal destination for star players. However, many notable players have played for the Pelicans during their careers, and their contributions are often forgotten.

The franchise has also become a frequent stop for aging veterans near the end of their careers. Notable players who played for the Pelicans near the end of their careers include Isaiah Thomas, Rajon Rondo, Josh Smith, Kendrick Perkins, Tony Allen, and Jameer Nelson.

As the Pelicans look to build a contender, fans are hopeful that Zion Williamson and company will make a lasting impact and not disappear into NBA obscurity.