The New Orleans Pelicans have made a move to strengthen their roster by signing guard Lester Quiñones to a two-way contract, the team announced today. The terms of the deal were not disclosed, as is standard with the Pelicans’ policy regarding player contracts. Quiñones, a 6-4, 208-pound guard, brings a mix of G League experience and NBA tenure to the team, and his addition reflects the Pelicans’ effort to bolster their backcourt depth.
Quiñones has had an impressive season with the Pelicans’ G League affiliate, the Birmingham Squadron. In 27 games this season, he has been a standout performer, averaging 22.4 points, 8.1 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. His 37 minutes per game show that he has been a key player for the Squadron, contributing significantly on both ends of the floor. These strong performances in the G League have likely caught the eye of Pelicans’ management, prompting the decision to offer him a two-way contract.
Prior to his time with the Birmingham Squadron, Quiñones had stints in the NBA with the Golden State Warriors and the Philadelphia 76ers. Over three seasons, he has appeared in 45 NBA games, averaging 4.1 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.9 assists in 9.5 minutes per game. While his role in the NBA has been limited, Quiñones’ time with the Warriors and 76ers provided him with valuable experience at the highest level of basketball.
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In his time with the Warriors and 76ers, Quiñones was able to learn from some of the best players in the league. His ability to contribute offensively and defensively in the G League suggests that he could offer valuable depth for the Pelicans as they head into the second half of the season. The team is likely hoping that Quiñones can continue to develop and eventually earn more minutes on the NBA roster.
In a corresponding move, the Pelicans have waived guard Jalen Crutcher. Crutcher, who had been with the team on a two-way contract, will no longer be a part of the Pelicans’ roster. His release opens up a spot for Quiñones, allowing the Pelicans to bring in a player who has shown promise in the G League and has NBA experience. The decision to part ways with Crutcher may be part of the Pelicans’ broader strategy to add depth and competition to their backcourt.
With the addition of Quiñones, the Pelicans are continuing their trend of using the G League to develop young talent and provide opportunities for players to prove themselves at the NBA level. As the season progresses, Quiñones’ performance with the Birmingham Squadron and his potential contributions to the Pelicans will be something to watch closely. The team’s decision to sign him reflects their commitment to finding emerging talent and strengthening their overall roster for the future.
