Pelicans Sign Elfrid Payton to 10-Day Contract

The New Orleans Pelicans have re-signed guard Elfrid Payton to a 10-day contract, marking his second stint with the team this season. Payton, a Louisiana native, previously played seven games for the Pelicans, averaging 6.7 points, 6.9 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per game, including a career-high 21 assists in one match. His return comes in light of significant injuries impacting the Pelicans roster, including to key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. The team currently holds the second-worst record in the Western Conference and is set to miss the playoffs this season. Payton's earlier time with the Charlotte Hornets included struggles, as he averaged only 4.1 points in 13 games across both teams this season. The Pelicans appear to be adjusting their roster significantly moving forward, focusing on building around Williamson's strengths.