Bryce McGowens secured a three-year deal from the New Orleans Pelicans after his surprising breakout campaign.
After the New Orleans Pelicans waived Dalen Terry, whom they got from the Jose Alvarado trade, it was clear that they would be working on a longer-term deal for Bryce McGowens. That time has come.
ESPN's Sham Charania broke the news on Friday afternoon that the Pelicans would be signing McGowens to a three-year contract. It is not yet known what the contract is valued at, but it should be for a fair amount.
McGowens has been a great success story for the coaching staff. He came in as a two-way player whose career on the edges has now secured a three-year deal after making the most of his opportunities.
The South Carolina native was drafted in the second round of the 2022 NBA draft, starting his career with the Charlotte Hornets. He was waived in July of 2024 before being picked up by the Portland Trail Blazers.
Over his first three seasons in the NBA, he averaged just 4.8 points, 1.7 rebounds and 0.9 assists per game on 41`.5/32.3/76.6 shooting splits. In the 20 G League games he played in that time, though, he averaged 27.7 points. New Orleans must have seen something in that, and it has worked out.
McGowens is averaging 7.9 points, 1.9 rebounds and 1.5 assists per outing on 48.0/45.3/76.6 from the charity stripe. He is among the most efficient wings in the league, rarely turns the ball over and just improves the offense when he's on the court.
The 23-year-old has certainly earned a role on this team and should be an important piece of the bench unit moving forward.