CJ McCollum has two more years with the New Orleans Pelicans before he becomes a free agent. In the year 2024, McCollum will be 33-years-old, but it would be smart for the Pelicans to give him a contract extension before he hits the free-agent market.
Ever since he became a Pelican CJ McCollum has called New Orleans his home. He even mentioned retiring with the Pels:
"“I’m not going nowhere. I’m here…where am I going to go? Leave for what? I want to retire here.”"
He has been a fan favorite ever since then because of his loyalty to the organization. Now it is time for the Pelicans to show their loyalty to CJ by giving him an extension.
New Orleans Pelicans: The CJ McCollum extension
In 26 games with the New Orleans Pelicans, CJ McCollum averaged 24 PPG off near 50 percent shooting. He is a very efficient player that is able to score the ball from the mid-range as well as from beyond the arc. He will be the third option when Zion Williamson is back and with Brandon Ingram being the go-to guy, which will make the Pelicans a more lethal offensive team.
His veteran experience helped the Pelicans make a run to the NBA Playoffs, so keeping him around a few more years will ensure a leadership the New Orleans Pelicans need to help guys like Zion, Trey Murphy, and more grow into stardom.
McCollum’s salary now is roughly $33 million a year and the Pelicans could extend his contract giving him $30 million a year for two or three extra years; putting him in that $60-$90 million range. Which is a reasonable price considering he would be into his mid 30s.
The New Orleans Pelicans giving CJ McCollum a contract extension will be beneficial for both parties. CJ McCollum is not only a talented player who gives the Pelicans one of the best trios in the NBA, but he is a veteran leader whose influence will be instrumental in the Pels making a run at an NBA title.
After the Pels lock up McCollum, they will turn their attention to Larry Nance Jr., who they also reportedly want to lock into a longer deal.