The New Orleans Pelicans have waived guard Elfrid Payton, sources confirmed to ESPN on Tuesday. In his seven-game stint with the team, Payton averaged 6.7 points, 6.9 assists, and 3.4 rebounds per night in 20.5 minutes of playing time. His most impressive performance was a 14-point, 21-assist, 7-rebound game against the Indiana Pacers on November 25.
The Pelicans are currently navigating the luxury tax with a depleted roster due to injuries to Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum’s return to action expected to coincide with Payton’s departure. Brandon Ingram (calf) and Herb Jones (shoulder) are also nearing their returns, according to sources.
Payton joined the Pelicans on November 20 and made a notable impact in his short tenure, playing alongside former teammate coach Willie Green of the Orlando Magic from the 2014-15 season. During his previous stint with the team in 2018-19, Payton recorded six triple-doubles. He was also named first-team All-Rookie in 2015 before being waived by the Pelicans on Tuesday.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/42761194/sources-pelicans-waiving-guard-elfrid-payton-7-games