Transactionally speaking, the New Orleans Pelicans offseason has been pretty uneventful up to this point. The biggest moves they’ve made so far include signing Cody Zeller, drafting Jordan Hawkins, and resigning Herbert Jones. Meanwhile, their biggest losses include them partying ways with Jaxson Hayes, Garrett Temple, and Willy Hernangómez.
However, it appears that the team might not be done making moves just yet. According to an article released by NBA Insider Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, it seems as though journeyman veteran guard Will Barton will be working out for the team. “Barton also will work out for the New Orleans Pelicans, league sources told HoopsHype,” Scotto wrote in his article.
One of the most glaring weaknesses of last season’s team (other than health) was their outside shooting. As a career 35.5% 3-point shooter, Barton is at least average in this area (which is more than you can say about most of the roster).
On top of that, he’s shot 39% on wide-open threes over the last three seasons (per thinkingbasketball.net). That’s especially good to hear because playing alongside Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram will lead to him gaining access to a boatload of open threes.
I don’t think signing him will be a game-changer, but at this point, Barton could provide some nice off-ball (and on-ball) scoring off the bench – something they will desperately need with Trey Murphy III set to be out of the lineup for at least the first month of the season.
With that said, just because he’s working out for the Pelicans doesn’t mean he’s a sure bet to sign with the team. Scotto also mentioned that the Golden State Warriors will be working out Barton. So, he has some options for where he wants to go next (so long as he impresses during workouts).
If Barton does play in the NBA this year, it will mark his 12th campaign with the association. So far, his career has consisted of stops in Portland, Denver, Washington, and Toronto. He is set to celebrate his 33rd birthday on January 6th.