Anthony Davis: Reliving The 2017-18 NBA Season

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into a standout year in Anthony Davis's incredible career: the 2017-18 NBA season. This was a year where AD truly cemented himself as one of the league's elite, showcasing a blend of offensive prowess and defensive dominance that few could match. Get ready to explore the stats, the highlights, and the unforgettable moments that defined Davis's 2017-18 campaign with the New Orleans Pelicans.

A Statistical Overview of Davis's 2017-18 Season

In the 2017-18 season, Anthony Davis wasn't just good; he was spectacular. Statistically, this season stands out as one of the best in his career. Let's break down some key numbers:

Games Played: Davis appeared in 75 regular-season games, showing remarkable durability compared to some other seasons.
Points Per Game (PPG): He averaged a whopping 28.1 points per game, ranking among the league's top scorers. This scoring output was fueled by a combination of post moves, jump shots, and rim-rattling dunks.
Rebounds Per Game (RPG): Davis was a beast on the boards, averaging 11.1 rebounds per game. His rebounding was crucial for the Pelicans, giving them second-chance opportunities and limiting opponents' possessions.
Blocks Per Game (BPG): Arguably the most impressive part of his defensive game, Davis averaged an astounding 2.6 blocks per game. This not only protected the rim but also deterred opponents from even attempting shots in the paint.
Field Goal Percentage (FG%): He shot an efficient 53.4% from the field, demonstrating his ability to score effectively from various spots on the court.
Other Stats: Davis also contributed 2.3 assists per game and 1.5 steals per game, showcasing his all-around game and ability to impact multiple facets of the game.

These numbers paint a picture of a player at the peak of his powers, a dominant force on both ends of the floor. His consistency throughout the season earned him accolades and solidified his status as a superstar in the NBA. For fans and analysts alike, the 2017-18 season provided ample evidence of Davis's potential to lead a team to contention.

Key Highlights and Memorable Moments

Beyond the impressive stats, Anthony Davis's 2017-18 season was filled with highlight-reel plays and unforgettable moments that truly defined his impact on the court. These moments weren't just about scoring points; they showcased his leadership, resilience, and sheer athleticism.

Dominant Performances: There were numerous games where Davis simply took over, scoring 40 or even 50 points while also grabbing double-digit rebounds and swatting away shots. These performances highlighted his ability to carry the team on his shoulders.
Game-Winning Plays: Davis had several game-winning blocks and shots that sent crowds into a frenzy. These clutch plays demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it mattered most.
Spectacular Dunks and Blocks: The season was filled with highlight-reel dunks and jaw-dropping blocks that showcased Davis's incredible athleticism. These plays often went viral, further cementing his reputation as one of the league's most exciting players to watch.
All-Star Game Appearance: Davis was selected to the All-Star Game, where he put on a show alongside the league's other top talents. This recognition was a testament to his outstanding performance throughout the season.
Playoff Push: Davis led the Pelicans to the playoffs, where they faced a tough opponent in the Portland Trail Blazers. His performance in the playoffs further solidified his status as a superstar, as he elevated his game to another level.

These highlights and memorable moments not only entertained fans but also underscored Davis's importance to the Pelicans. He wasn't just a scorer; he was a playmaker, a defender, and a leader who inspired his teammates to play their best. The 2017-18 season was a testament to his ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it mattered most.

Davis's Impact on the Pelicans

Anthony Davis's influence on the New Orleans Pelicans during the 2017-18 season was massive. He wasn't just putting up numbers; he was the heart and soul of the team, driving their success on both ends of the court. His presence elevated the play of those around him and instilled a sense of confidence that permeated the entire organization.

Offensive Leader: Davis was the primary scoring option, drawing double-teams and creating opportunities for his teammates. His ability to score in a variety of ways made him a nightmare matchup for opposing defenses.
Defensive Anchor: Davis was the team's defensive anchor, protecting the rim and deterring opponents from attacking the basket. His presence in the paint made the Pelicans a formidable defensive team.
Leadership: Davis emerged as a leader, both on and off the court. He led by example, working hard and holding his teammates accountable. His leadership was instrumental in the team's success.
Team Chemistry: Davis's positive attitude and willingness to work with his teammates helped foster a strong sense of team chemistry. This chemistry translated into better performance on the court.
Playoff Appearance: Davis led the Pelicans to the playoffs, marking a significant achievement for the franchise. His performance in the playoffs further solidified his status as a superstar and cemented his legacy in New Orleans.

Davis's impact on the Pelicans extended beyond the stat sheet. He brought a sense of hope and excitement to the city, energizing the fan base and making the team a legitimate contender in the Western Conference. The 2017-18 season was a testament to his ability to transform a team and lead them to success.

Comparisons to Other Top Players

During the 2017-18 season, discussions about the NBA's top players invariably included Anthony Davis. His stellar performances sparked comparisons to other elite talents in the league, such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry. While each player possessed unique strengths, Davis's combination of scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking made him a standout among his peers.

LeBron James: Like James, Davis was a dominant force who could impact the game in multiple ways. While James was known for his playmaking and all-around brilliance, Davis excelled as a scorer and rim protector.
Kevin Durant: Similar to Durant, Davis was a versatile scorer who could shoot over defenders with ease. However, Davis's rebounding and shot-blocking prowess gave him an edge on the defensive end.
Stephen Curry: While Curry was renowned for his unparalleled shooting ability, Davis's inside presence and defensive skills provided a different dimension to his game.

These comparisons highlighted Davis's status as one of the league's premier players. While he may not have possessed the same level of experience or accolades as some of his counterparts, his talent and potential were undeniable. The 2017-18 season served as a launching pad for Davis, setting the stage for future success and solidifying his place among the NBA's elite.

The Pelicans' Playoff Run

The 2017-18 season was particularly memorable for Anthony Davis and the New Orleans Pelicans due to their exciting playoff run. After securing a spot in the playoffs, the Pelicans faced off against the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round. Davis's exceptional performance was instrumental in the team's success.

First-Round Victory: Davis led the Pelicans to a stunning sweep of the Trail Blazers, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the court. His scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence were too much for the Blazers to handle.
Individual Performances: Throughout the series, Davis delivered several standout performances, including multiple games with 30 or more points and double-digit rebounds. His consistency and leadership were key to the team's success.
Team Effort: While Davis was the star of the show, the Pelicans' playoff run was also a testament to the team's overall depth and chemistry. Players like Jrue Holiday, Rajon Rondo, and Nikola Mirotić stepped up and made significant contributions.

Although the Pelicans' playoff run ultimately ended in the second round against the Golden State Warriors, the experience was invaluable for Davis and the team. It provided them with a taste of success and fueled their desire to compete for a championship in the future. The 2017-18 season served as a turning point for the Pelicans, establishing them as a legitimate contender in the Western Conference.

What Made This Season Special for Anthony Davis?

So, what exactly made the 2017-18 season so special for Anthony Davis? It wasn't just about the numbers, although those were certainly impressive. It was about the complete package – the growth, the leadership, and the impact he had on the team. This was a season where Davis truly came into his own as a superstar.

Peak Performance: Davis was at the peak of his physical and mental abilities, showcasing a level of dominance that few players could match. His scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess were all on full display.
Leadership Role: Davis embraced his role as the team's leader, both on and off the court. He led by example, inspiring his teammates to play their best and holding them accountable when necessary.
Team Success: The Pelicans' playoff run was a testament to Davis's impact on the team. He elevated the play of those around him and helped transform the Pelicans into a legitimate contender in the Western Conference.
Personal Growth: Davis demonstrated significant personal growth throughout the season, both as a player and as a leader. He became more confident, more assertive, and more determined to succeed.

In conclusion, the 2017-18 season was a defining moment in Anthony Davis's career. It was a season where he showcased his incredible talent, embraced his leadership role, and led the Pelicans to new heights. For fans of Davis and the Pelicans, this season will always be remembered as a special one.