Just a desperate signing? Maybe. The New Orleans Pelicans have been riddled with injuries this season. So bad that before the Cavs game, 90% of their payroll was inactive. Elfrid Payton, now back with the team 5 years after his last stint, hopes this opportunity revives his NBA journey. After spending the preseason and training camp with New Orleans this year, he’s returning a month into the season. Once the 10th pick of the 2014 draft, Payton’s path has been a winding one, featuring stints with Orlando, Phoenix, and the Knicks.

Recently, he played for the Indiana Mad Ants and Puerto Rico’s Osos de Manati, keeping his career alive while awaiting another NBA chance. This signing isn’t just about depth—it’s a second shot for a player determined to prove he still belongs in the top hoops league.

Being familiar with both the Pelicans’ system and the city, Elfrid Payton should quickly adjust and make his presence felt. But let’s keep it real—this signing screams desperation. If not for New Orleans’ injury crisis, the 30-year-old likely would’ve remained a free agent. That said, it’s a solid short-term fix. Once the Pelicans’ roster gets healthy, Payton could prove to be a valuable asset, collectively. For now, he fills a need, and it’ll be interesting to see if the front office makes more moves to salvage their season.

So what is the cost of Elfrid Payton’s services? As per team policy, the details of his contract haven’t been disclosed. But spotrac.com estimates he has signed a contract worth $2.5 million.

Elfrid Payton has amassed a big paycheck from his time in the NBA!

Payton has earned a solid $31.8 million throughout his NBA career, a testament to his journey through highs and lows. Starting in 2014, he made almost $2.4 million as a rookie, steadily increasing his earnings with each season. By 2019, Payton hit a career-high payday of $7.5 million, a big leap that reflected his value at the time in New York.

His earnings dipped slightly in later years, but he remained a steady presence on various rosters. Even during challenging stretches, like being retained with reduced salaries, Elfrid Payton managed to keep his career alive. In 2024, he’s now added an estimated $2.5 million, proving he’s still finding opportunities in the big league.

Over his career, Payton has played for multiple teams, including the Orlando Magic and New York Knicks, and even made his mark overseas. Not bad for someone who’s often played supporting roles on rosters with fluctuating priorities!

At 30, his cumulative $31.8 million isn’t just about talent—it’s also about staying adaptable. For a player who’s been through ups and downs, his resilience is what stands out.

“I honestly believe everything happens for a reason. So, between believing in that, having family around, and having teammates to support me, it has made dealing with adversity easy.” Elfrid Payton certainly has gone through adversities and is back once again.

It’s fascinating to think about what his future holds. Whether he’s a short-term fix for the Pelicans or a spark for a deeper run, Elfrid Payton has made a respectable living. Here’s hoping he gets another chance to show what he can bring to the game.