The New Orleans Pelicans made it clear that they are all-in on competing with Zion Williamson. While he was sidelined for the 2021-22 NBA season, the team pulled off a midseason trade with the New Orleans Pelicans for CJ McCollum — adding a key backcourt piece for the foreseeable future.
McCollum raised his game to a new level after being traded to the Pelicans. He averaged 24.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists, which played an integral role in their late-season rally to earn a playoff spot. The team ultimately was eliminated in the first-round by the Phoenix Suns but showed promise for what could be achieved when Zion Williamson returns.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Pelicans and McCollum have agreed to a two-year, $64 million contract extension that will have him signed through the 2025-26 season.
“New Orleans Pelicans star CJ McCollum has agreed on a two-year, $64 million contract extension that’ll take him through the 2025-2026 season, his agent Sam Goldfeder of Excel Sports told ESPN on Saturday.”
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: CJ McCollum & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
It has been a struggle for the Pelicans to find impactful guard play since drafting Williamson. Lonzo Ball experienced a boost in his 3-point shooting but was limited in the half-court as a creator. McCollum
The Pelicans now have their core of Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, and Brandon Ingram signed through 2025. Ingram has already made strides in his development, and it’s reflected in being named the NBA’s Most Improved Player in 2019-20. There are some key factors now: Williamson and depth.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: CJ McCollum & New Orleans Pelicans Updates
The future is bright for the New Orleans Pelicans if they can get Zion Williamson to live up to the expectations established when he entered the NBA. They will become a major threat if he can emerge as a top 20 player. If he can become a top-five player? There is real championship potential.
