The New Orleans Pelicans have agreed to sign guard Lance Stephenson.
The deal was first reported by Shams Charania of The Vertical:
Free agent Lance Stephenson has agreed to a deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, league source tells The Vertical.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 9, 2016
Pelicans sign Lance Stephenson
Last season, Stephenson averaged 8.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game with the Los Angles Clippers and Memphis Grizzlies. Stephenson, 26, is headed into his 7th season and is looking to re-spark his career. There were recent reports that he would have to take his game overseas for a while in order to find his groove again. Luckily for Stephenson, the Pelicans have decided to give him a shot.
Stephenson was drafted 40th overall by the Indiana Pacers in 2010 out of the University of Cincinnati. He would have four solid seasons with the Pacers, averaging 13.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists during the 2013-2014 season. He would enter free agency and sign a 3-year, $27 million deal with the Charlotte Hornets. After a year of disappointment in Charlotte, he would then be traded to the Clippers. Once again, he would disappoint and be traded to the Grizzlies.
For the Pelicans, this is a signing that can pay off for the immediate future. During his tenure with the Grizzlies, Stephenson averaged 14.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. It was clear that he was starting to find his rhythm again. When on the court, Stephenson can do a little bit of everything for a team. We were able to see that during the 2013-2014 season. Not only can he help score and create on the offensive end, but he can also defend at a high level.
The Pelicans desperately need to find help for Anthony Davis. They have lacked another player who can do more than just score. If Stephenson is able to return to form, he could really rejuvenate his career in New Orleans.
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