New Orleans Pelicans: Top 10 draft picks in franchise history

With the 2019 NBA Draft just days away, let’s take a look back and reflect on the greatest draft choices made by the New Orleans Pelicans.

Well, they haven’t all been gems, any member of the New Orleans Pelicans‘ fanbase will tell you that. But, they weren’t all bad (totally not looking at you here, Cedric Simmons). Pelicans fans are anxiously awaiting the 2019 NBA Draft as a new era dawns in under consensus number one pick, Zion Williamson. In the meantime, let’s go take a trip through time.

The 2003 NBA Draft, widely known as possessing one of the greatest draft classes of all-time, was also New Orleans’ inaugural appearance. Since then, the team has amassed an overall record of 643 wins and 734 losses, they’ve made the postseason several times and are responsible for thirteen first-round draft selections.

They’ve enjoyed success, just like in the 07/08 season where they won 56 games and were just one game away from the Conference Finals, and they’ve been cellar dwellers like in the 04/05 season where they won just 18 games.

Just like every other organization, there’s been ups-and-downs. Unfortunately for long-term fans, the downs seem to trump the moments of prosperity. Badly timed injuries, questionable front office decision making, and disgruntled stars have all plagued this franchise.

But let’s try and zone in on the “ups” as best we can. Without further adieu, here’s the Top 10 greatest draft picks in franchise history!