According to sources, the New Orleans Pelicans have signed veteran guard Elfrid Payton to a training camp contract, as reported by ESPN on Thursday afternoon.
At 30 years old, Payton hails from the New Orleans area and previously played college basketball at the University of Louisiana, located just a two-hour drive to the west.
His most recent NBA tenure was during the 2021-22 season with the Phoenix Suns, after which he spent time with the Indiana Mad Ants in the G-League last year.
Payton had previously donned the Pelicans jersey in the 2018-19 season, marking a standout period in his career. He averaged 10.6 points per game, alongside career highs of 7.6 assists and 5.2 rebounds. Notably, he achieved consecutive triple-doubles towards the end of that season.
This season, the Pelicans’ training camp will be held in Nashville while their practice facility in Metairie, Louisiana, undergoes renovations.
The terms of Payton’s contract were arranged by his representatives at Tandem Sports + Entertainment.
New Orleans Pelicans Sign Veteran Guard Elfrid Payton to Training Camp Deal
The New Orleans Pelicans have recently made headlines by signing veteran guard Elfrid Payton to a training camp deal. This move marks a significant addition to the Pelicans’ roster as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season. Payton, known for his playmaking abilities and defensive skills, brings valuable experience and depth to the team.
Elfrid Payton: A Brief Overview
Elfrid Payton, a 6’3″ guard from Louisiana, has had a notable NBA career since being drafted in 2014. He has played for several teams, including the Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks, and most recently, the New Orleans Pelicans. His playing style is characterized by:
- Playmaking Ability: Payton is known for his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
- Defensive Skills: A tenacious defender, he can guard multiple positions on the floor.
- Experience: With over 400 NBA games under his belt, Payton brings a wealth of knowledge to the court.
Why the Pelicans Signed Payton
The decision to sign Payton comes as the Pelicans aim to bolster their backcourt options. Here are a few reasons why this signing is beneficial:
1. Depth in the Backcourt
With key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram also needing ball handlers, Payton’s presence adds depth to the guard position. His ability to play both as a starter and off the bench allows the coaching staff flexibility in rotations.
2. Mentorship for Young Players
As a veteran, Payton can serve as a mentor to younger players such as Jose Alvarado and Dyson Daniels. His experience can help these upcoming talents develop their game and adapt to the fast-paced nature of the NBA.
3. Familiarity with the Coaching Staff
Payton has previously played under Pelicans’ head coach Willie Green, which may facilitate a smoother integration into the team dynamics. This familiarity could lead to on-court chemistry right from the start of the training camp.
What to Expect from Elfrid Payton
Fans of the Pelicans can anticipate several contributions from Payton during his time with the team. Here are some key expectations:
1. Playmaking and Assists
Payton has a career average of around 6 assists per game. His ability to distribute the ball effectively will be crucial, especially in creating open shots for perimeter players and facilitating the offense.
2. Defensive Contributions
Defensively, Payton’s size and agility allow him to guard multiple positions, providing the Pelicans with a versatile option on that end of the court. His experience in high-pressure situations will be valuable during crucial game moments.
3. Leadership Qualities
Payton’s leadership on and off the court can help guide younger teammates, fostering a competitive and learning environment throughout training camp and into the regular season.
Historical Performance and Stats
| Season | Team | Games Played | Points Per Game | Assists Per Game</th | Rebounds Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014-2015 | Orlando Magic | 21 | 5.7 | 3.5 | 2.5 |
| 2016-2017 | Orlando Magic | 65 | 15.1 | 6.5 | 4.0 |
| 2019-2020 | New York Knicks | 63 | 10.1 | 7.2 | 4.5 |
| 2020-2021 | New York Knicks | 47 | 12.7 | 6.6 | 3.7 |
Training Camp Expectations
As the training camp approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Payton integrates into the Pelicans’ system. Here are things to look out for:
1. Position Battle
The competition for playing time in the guard rotation will be fierce. Payton will need to prove himself in practice and during preseason games to secure a spot in the regular-season lineup.
2. Adaptation to Team Dynamics
Integrating into a new team often comes with challenges. Observing how Payton adapts to the playing style and how he interacts with teammates will be critical in determining his role moving forward.
3. Impact on Team Culture
Payton’s presence can influence the overall team culture. Coaches will be looking for him to embody the work ethic and resilience they expect from their players.
Potential Challenges Ahead
While the signing of Payton brings many benefits, there are also potential challenges he may face:
1. Injury Concerns
Throughout his career, Payton has dealt with injuries that have sidelined him at crucial times. Maintaining his health during the training camp and regular season will be paramount.
2. Competition for Minutes
With several guards on the Pelicans’ roster, including established players, Payton will need to outshine competitors in training camp to earn significant playing time.
Conclusion
The signing of Elfrid Payton to a training camp deal by the New Orleans Pelicans injects experienced talent into the team’s roster. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on Payton to see how he can contribute to the Pelicans’ aspirations for the upcoming NBA season.
