The Pelicans pulled off an impressive and unlikely sweep during the first round versus the Trailblazers, mainly due to the insane play of Anthony Davis and the emergence of Jrue Holiday.

That said, you can’t overlook the amazing play of Rajon Rondo, who allowed Holiday to play more freely and not always have the ball in his hands. Rondo is definitely a ball dominant guard, and this allows Holiday to free up and score on off-ball screens and not always be the main focus of the defense, behind Anthony Davis.

While Rajon only averaged 11 points during this very short four-game series, he averaged 13 assists. He had 16 assists in the final game of the series, which marked the 125^thtime Rondo has had 15+ assists in a game. Not only does Rondo pass, yet he plays defense as well. He is the exact representation of a true point guard. He doesn’t shoot; he passes. He doesn’t become lazy when defending; he locks down his opponent.

Rajon Rondo is a legendary competitor. This name “Playoff Rondo” emerged in 2008 when the Celtics made their title run with Rondo, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. That is a lot of talent, yet they would not have been able to make that run without Rondo. He also came up last season when the Bulls were tearing apart the Celtics until Rondo got sidelined with a fractured thumb.

Rondo averages a solid 10.5 points, 8.5 assists and around 4.8 rebounds per game during the regular season throughout his whole career. In the playoffs, he averages 14.3 points, nine assists, six rebounds and two steals per game. This man steps up and wins games in the playoffs. All he needs is the ball in his hands and someone to pass to, and Rondo can be a huge part of bringing your favorite team a title.