A training camp preview for the New Orleans Pelicans' newly acquired forward Trendon Watford.
The New Orleans Pelicans kick off training camp in just a couple of weeks, which means it is time to start preparations for the season. As the roster comes into shape, it's important to take stock of where everyone is heading into camp.
There aren't going to be many Pelicans on this roster who weren't here before, but point forward Trendon Watford is one of them. Here is a look at where he stands for the next few weeks:
State Of His Career
Watford is entering Year 6 in the NBA after going undrafted back in 2021. He was a high school star and was an All-SEC player in college for the LSU Tigers, but he didn't exactly have the skill set that every team would rush to draft. He has proven that he does have at least some space at the next level as a role player.
Through five years, he has posted 7.6 points, 3.6 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game with a 51.5/32.5/76.1 shooting splits. He offers great playmaking for his size, can score well from the paint and is good at drawing fouls. That is the most of what he has to offer.
Where He Must Grow
There are two areas where he has underperformed in the past, and that the team is looking for more of. He hasn't been the most consistent rebounder for his position, and he has also been incredibly inconsistent from three. He shot above 39% in the 22/23 and 23/24 seasons (albeit on about one attempt per game), but that dropped to 20.0% last year.
Given that Watford is considered a big, his rebound numbers have been lackluster. Per CleaningTheGlass, he has never finished above the 46th percentile for either offensive or defensive rebounds. At 6-foot-8, the team would be relying on him there when he's on the court.
Goal For Training Camp
There will be heavy competition for minutes, and Watford's partially guaranteed deal certainly means that he could be cut if the team doesn't see a real fit for him long term. This is a team that is looking for more answers on the boards and on defense, so that is also a real possibility. So first, he will just need to make the roster. Then, it becomes about finding his place in the rotation.
The other bench players that he would really be competing with are guys like Bryce McGowens, Karlo Matkovic and Jordan Poole, who are the ones with less guaranteed playing time.
