The New Orleans Pelicans agreed to a two-year, $9 million contract extension with guard Jose Alvarado, securing the 26-year-old spark plug through the 2025-26 NBA season with a player option for 2026-27, according to multiple reports.
Known for his high energy and tenacious defense, Alvarado has become a fan favorite since joining the Pelicans on a two-way contract in 2021 after a four-year college career at Georgia Tech. In 56 games last season, he averaged 7.1 points, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals while shooting 37.7% from 3-point range.
Alvarado, who finished sixth in NBA Sixth Man of the Year voting in 2023, will continue to play a key role off the bench for New Orleans. He is expected to back up new arrival Dejounte Murray, who was acquired from the Atlanta Hawks in June.
The Pelicans are aiming for their second consecutive playoff appearance, something the franchise hasn’t achieved since the 2008-09 season. Alvarado’s defensive presence and improved shooting will be crucial as New Orleans looks to make another push in the Western Conference.
Injury Challenges
Alvarado’s career has been hampered by injuries, limiting his availability in each of his three NBA seasons. He played in 56 games last year, missing significant time with a shin injury. This year, he sat out the first 13 games of the 2023-24 season due to a right ankle sprain.
The injury woes continued during the summer when Alvarado sprained his ankle while representing Puerto Rico in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Despite playing through the injury, Puerto Rico was eliminated in the group stage.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Jose Alverado, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
The Pelicans are hopeful that Alvarado can remain healthy moving forward, providing needed depth behind Murray as the team pushes for postseason success.
A Key Part of the Rotation
Alvarado’s extension gives the Pelicans stability in their backcourt and keeps a key piece of their rotation in place. The 6-foot guard’s relentless hustle and ability to force turnovers have made him a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.
“God thank you. Stay the course one-five,” Alvarado tweeted after news of the deal, signaling his gratitude for the extension.
The Pelicans are set to open their 2024-25 season at home against the Chicago Bulls on Oct. 23, with Alvarado expected to make his debut as the team’s second-unit point guard behind Murray.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Jose Alverado, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
The extension not only secures Alvarado’s future in New Orleans but also reflects the Pelicans’ belief in his continued development as a crucial part of their success.
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