New Orleans Pelicans All-Time Team: Starting 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
Brendon (@zimmerguy4): David West
To be frank, the first thing I noticed when I looked at the profile of New Orleans’ favorite big man is his (lack of) health. (Shout out to Basketball Reference for their franchise leaderboards, which have been indispensable in creating these all-time teams.) It was startling to remember how much time he missed during his time in the Big Easy. Even so, his contributions to the team are undeniable.
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Mr. West is first in both minutes and games played for the franchise by a considerable margin (over 100 games and 2000 minutes ahead of Chris Paul). Those statistics show his longevity and consistent productivity, but he is at or near the top in almost every category. West was a true franchise guy, one that truly makes a fan proud even after he leaves.
I personally value top contributors on that 2007-2008 squad, because to me it is the most important season in franchise history, and that was West’s best season. He combined a 26% usage rate with a 19.9 PER, and topped those numbers off with 21 points, nine rebounds, two assists and the best rim protecting season of his career, with a 2.7 block percentage and 1.3 of them per game.
It’s hard to argue with choosing Anthony Davis in this spot, but he is only three seasons into what will obviously be a great career, barring injury. West has battled through those injuries, played a great career, and meant something to a legitimately good team. Eight years with the team and amazingly consistent production are ranked slightly higher for me than an explosive few years.
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