6 Basketball Players who Played for Pelicans and Thunder
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players who have played for both the New Orleans Pelicans and Oklahoma City Thunder.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Pelicans and the Thunder.
Chris Paul
Chris Paul was drafted fourth overall by the New Orleans Hornets in the 2005 NBA Draft and quickly became one of the league’s top point guards. Paul was named the NBA Rookie of the Year in 2006.
Paul is well-known for his scoring ability, quickness, and exceptional skills as a playmaker. He’s led the NBA in assists 6 times, and his career has been highlighted by twelve All-Star selections. He’s also been recognized for his defensive skills (9x All-Defensive Team), leading the league in steals per game multiple times.
In addition to his time with the Hornets, Paul has played for the Los Angeles Clippers, the Houston Rockets, the Oklahoma City Thunder, and the Phoenix Suns. Each time, he’s left a significant impact, particularly celebrated for his leadership qualities on and off the court.
Paul Key Stats
- Rookie of the Year (Pelicans)
- All-Star (Pelicans, Clippers, Thunder, Suns)
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Pelicans)
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Pelicans, Clippers, Rockets, Thunder, Suns)
Derrick Favors
Derrick Favors was known for his tenacity on the boards and his ability to score in the paint. Selected third overall by the New Jersey Nets in the 2010 NBA Draft, Favors was traded to the Utah Jazz in his rookie season as part of the deal for Deron Williams.
In Utah, Favors blossomed into a solid power forward, regularly starting and making significant contributions on both ends of the floor. Over multiple seasons with the Jazz, he provided solid scoring and rebounding numbers, along with his sturdy defense.
While he might not have been an All-Star, Favors has had a solid NBA career, consistently contributing as a valuable team player and demonstrating his skills as a rebounder and interior scorer.
Nate Robinson
Nate Robinson was selected 21st overall by the Phoenix Suns in the 2005 NBA Draft but was promptly traded to the New York Knicks. With the Knicks, he quickly became a fan favorite due to his energetic plays and ability to score against much taller opponents.
His time in New York showcased his talents, and Robinson became a three-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion in 2006, 2009, and 2010.
Throughout his NBA career, Robinson played for multiple teams (8 in total), including the Boston Celtics, Chicago Bulls, and Denver Nuggets, among others. Regardless of the team, his fearless approach and knack for making big plays in crucial moments remained consistent.
Kendrick Perkins
Kendrick Perkins was selected in the first round of the 2003 NBA Draft as the 27th overall pick by the Memphis Grizzlies. He was subsequently traded to the Boston Celtics, where he began his career.
Perkins is best known for his time with the Celtics, where he played a crucial role as a strong and physical center. He was a part of the 2007-2008 Celtics team that won the NBA Championship.
During his career, he also played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Cleveland Cavaliers, and New Orleans Pelicans. Perkins wasn’t a prolific scorer, but he made his mark as a tough rebounder and an intimidating defensive presence.
Norris Cole
Norris Cole was selected 28th overall in the first round of the 2011 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls, but his rights were traded to the Miami Heat on draft night. Joining the Heat during an era defined by LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh, Cole played a crucial support role as a backup point guard.
The early years of Cole’s career were marked by significant success, as he was a part of the Miami Heat teams that won back-to-back NBA Championships in 2012 and 2013. His defensive intensity and timely scoring were assets during these championship runs.
After his time with the Heat, Cole had brief stints with other NBA teams, including the New Orleans Pelicans and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Post-NBA, he continued his professional basketball journey in various international leagues.
Desmond Mason
Desmond Mason was selected 17th overall by the Seattle SuperSonics in the 2000 NBA Draft. Quickly demonstrating his potential, he became an integral part of the SuperSonics’ rotation. Mason’s athletic prowess was fully showcased in 2001 when he won the NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
Throughout his NBA tenure, Mason played for several teams, including the Seattle SuperSonics, Milwaukee Bucks, New Orleans Hornets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Sacramento Kings.
While primarily celebrated for his dunks, Mason was also a dependable two-way player who provided teams with solid defense and consistent scoring.
