The Best New Orleans Pelicans of All Time

Over 1.9K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best New Orleans Pelicans of All Time
Voting Rules
Please rank the players based only on their time with the Hornets/Pelicans franchise

Who are the best New Orleans Pelicans of all time? Prior to the 2013-14 season, the New Orleans franchise was known as the Hornets. After rebranding to the Pelicans, the Crescent City embraced the new mascot while flocking to the Smoothie King Center. Basketball in New Orleans hasn't always been pretty though. The Pels last made the playoffs in 2018, upsetting the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round behind a talented team that featured Jrue Holiday, Rajon Rondo, and Anthony Davis. So is the best New Orleans Pelican ever?

There are a few Pelicans players whose futures are bright. Zion Williamson, the first overall pick in 2019 is a Pelicans player who has great potential to be one of the best big men in the NBA. He follows in the footsteps of Chris Paul and Davis, as former top draft picks for New Orleans who became franchise leaders. NOLA hoops fans are also hoping recent picks Kira Lewis and Trey Murphy live up to their potential.

Who is the best New Orleans Hornet/Pelican of all time? Vote below or rerank the list based on who you think is the greatest NOLA basketball player of all time. Flock Up! 

Most divisive: Emeka Okafor
Ranked by
  • Anthony Davis
    1
    Power forward, Center
    1,280 votes
    • Birthplace: Chicago, Illinois, USA

    As the New Orleans Pelicans' first overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, Anthony Davis quickly became a dominant force in the league with his extraordinary ability to score, rebound, and block shots. A linchpin for the team during his tenure, Davis delighted fans with his ferocious dunks, exceptional athleticism, and undeniable leadership. Serving as a cornerstone of New Orleans basketball for seven seasons, his unibrowed legacy includes an unforgettable playoff run in 2018 that left him etched in the hearts of Pelican faithful.

  • Chris Paul
    2
    Point guard
    1,237 votes
    • Birthplace: Winston-Salem, North Carolina

    Drafted by the then-New Orleans Hornets in 2005, Chris Paul solidified himself as one of the best point guards in NBA history during his time with the franchise. A masterful floor general and true extension of the head coach on the court, Paul's exceptional basketball IQ and elite playmaking ability transformed the Hornets into perennial playoff contenders. His relentless work ethic and penchant for delivering in clutch moments set the standard for future Pelican guards and earned him a special place in the annals of New Orleans sports lore.

  • Jrue Holiday
    3
    Point guard
    481 votes
    • Birthplace: Chatsworth, Los Angeles, California

    An instrumental component of the Pelicans' success since joining the team in 2013, Jrue Holiday's two-way prowess and versatility make him an invaluable asset on the court. Combining smooth offensive skills with dogged defensive intensity, Holiday has consistently proven his worth as one of the top guards in the league. Known for locking down the opposition's best perimeter player and showing up in crucial situations, Holiday continues to leave an indelible mark on the Pelicans franchise.

  • Zion Williamson
    4
    Power forward
    390 votes
    • Birthplace: Salisbury, North Carolina

    Despite his relatively short time with the Pelicans, Zion Williamson's breathtaking athletic display and sheer dominance have already cemented his place among New Orleans' elite. Effortlessly blending power and finesse, Williamson's extraordinary skill set is matched only by his infectious energy, electrifying fans game after game. As he continues to shatter expectations and rewrite the record books, the future Hall-of-Famer's impact on the sport remains as palpable as his thunderous dunks.

  • Brandon Ingram
    5

    Brandon Ingram

    Small forward
    201 votes
    • Birthplace: Kinston, North Carolina

    Since arriving in New Orleans in 2019, Brandon Ingram's prodigious offensive talent and remarkable growth as a leader have made him an integral part of the Pelicans' core. With his silky-smooth jump shot, versatile scoring arsenal, and increasing ability to create for others, Ingram has emerged as one of the league's most promising young stars. As he consistently proves his potential knows no bounds, Ingram's unique combination of skill and determination has him on a path toward greatness.

  • Baron Davis
    6
    Point guard
    597 votes
    • Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA

    A dynamic force in the early 2000s, Baron Davis dazzled New Orleans with his explosive athleticism, incredible passing ability, and seemingly limitless range. Though his tenure with the then-Hornets was brief, Davis' indomitable spirit and highlight-reel moments left an indelible mark on the franchise. His impact as a trailblazing point guard is still felt today, paving the way for the talented floor generals who followed in his footsteps.