The New Orleans Pelicans are bringing back veteran guard Elfrid Payton on a 10-day contract, NBA insider Michael Scotto reported. This marks Payton’s third stint with the team this season.
Payton, who previously played for New Orleans in November, made an impact with a career-high 21 assists against the Indiana Pacers before being waived in December. He later joined the Charlotte Hornets on two consecutive 10-day contracts, averaging 3.3 assists and 2.2 rebounds in six appearances.
The 31-year-old floor general now returns to a Pelicans squad that has already been eliminated from postseason contention. New Orleans sits at 19-51, ranking 14th in the Western Conference with just a few weeks remaining in the regular season.
Payton’s addition provides backcourt depth as the team plays out its final stretch. He averaged 6.7 points, 6.9 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals in 20.6 minutes per game in his earlier stint with the Pelicans this season.
With his passing ability and defensive instincts, Payton could have another opportunity to showcase his playmaking skills before the season concludes.
