New Orleans Pelicans All-Time Franchise Team: Backup Power Forward

Oct 30, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; Indiana Pacers power forward David West (21) against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second half of a game at New Orleans Arena. The Pacers defeated the Pelicans 95-90. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Charles (@CLaRoccaJR): David West

The history of the New Orleans Pelicans power forward position is probably the richest in the franchise history. A player that manned this position longer than any other power forward in the team’s brief history is David West, who also happens to be one of the best players to ever wear a New Orleans jersey.

In New Orleans, David West kept getting better year after year, slowly developing into one of the best power forwards in the NBA. Putting his per game numbers aside, David West’s name appears all over the franchise leaderboards. He has played in the most games, while also leading the franchise in points, minutes played, and total rebounds. West did it all while averaging a respectable 16 points per game.

While it may seem like a distant memory now, West was one of the best power forwards in the NBA while with New Orleans. He had one of the silkiest mid-range jumpers in the league, to go with a solid low post game. D-West was the perfect bread to Chris Paul’s butter. It was this lethal combination that led to 2 All-Star appearances for D-West and a franchise best 56 wins for New Orleans in the 2007-2008 season.

West was the perfect sidekick to Chris Paul and provided many memorable moments on the court proving that he can play with anyone. As far as the fans, many will remember D-West for his tough, quiet demeanor that endeared him into the hearts of New Orleans fans everywhere. Chris Paul catches a lot of slack for leaving New Orleans, but David West still remains respected by most fans to this day. It is a testament to his talent and professionalism while being in NOLA.

Next: Austin Finishes Us Up