Where is cj mccollum now

Overview

CJ McCollum is an American professional basketball player currently serving as a starting guard for the New Orleans Pelicans in the NBA. Born on September 19, 1991, in Canton, Ohio, he played college basketball at Lehigh University, where he gained national attention by leading the 15th-seeded Mountain Hawks to a historic upset over 2nd-seeded Duke in the 2012 NCAA Tournament. McCollum was selected 10th overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2013 NBA Draft, spending the first eight and a half seasons of his career there and forming a dynamic backcourt partnership with Damian Lillard.

On February 8, 2022, McCollum was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans in a multi-player deal that sent Josh Hart, Tomas Satoransky, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, and draft picks to Portland. This move marked a significant shift in his career, transitioning from a small-market team in Portland to a young, ascending Pelicans squad built around Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Since joining New Orleans, McCollum has taken on a leadership role, both on the court as a primary scorer and playmaker, and off the court as a veteran presence for the team's emerging talent.

How It Works

CJ McCollum's role with the New Orleans Pelicans combines scoring, playmaking, and leadership to drive the team's success in the competitive Western Conference.

• Key Point 1: Offensive Production and Efficiency: In the 2023-2024 season, McCollum averaged 20.0 points per game while shooting 45.1% from the field and an impressive 42.9% from three-point range. His scoring ability, particularly from beyond the arc, provides crucial spacing for the Pelicans' offense, allowing stars like Zion Williamson to operate in the paint. McCollum's 4.6 assists per game also demonstrate his playmaking skills, making him a dual-threat guard who can create for himself and others.
• Key Point 2: Contract and Team Commitment: McCollum signed a two-year, $64 million contract extension with the Pelicans in September 2022, which runs through the 2025-2026 season. This deal reflects the team's confidence in his long-term value and leadership. At age 32 as of 2024, McCollum brings veteran experience to a relatively young roster, mentoring players like Trey Murphy III and Dyson Daniels while stabilizing the backcourt.
• Key Point 3: Leadership and Off-Court Role: Beyond his on-court contributions, McCollum serves as the President of the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), a position he assumed in 2021. In this role, he advocates for player rights, negotiates collective bargaining agreements, and addresses league-wide issues. This leadership extends to the Pelicans, where he has been vocal about building a winning culture and supporting community initiatives in New Orleans.
• Key Point 4: Injury Management and Durability: McCollum has maintained solid availability, playing 66 games in the 2023-2024 season despite past injury concerns, including a collapsed lung in 2021. His conditioning and recovery routines, which include specialized training and diet plans, help him stay productive. This durability is critical for the Pelicans, as McCollum's presence often correlates with improved team performance, such as their 49-33 record and playoff berth in 2023-2024.

Key Comparisons

Why It Matters

• Impact 1: Elevating the Pelicans' Playoff Aspirations: McCollum's arrival has boosted the Pelicans' competitiveness, with the team making the playoffs in the 2023-2024 season after a 49-33 record. His clutch shooting and experience in high-pressure situations, such as averaging 22.1 points in playoff games with Portland, provide a critical edge. This has helped transform New Orleans from a rebuilding team to a consistent playoff contender in the Western Conference.
• Impact 2: Mentoring Young Talent and Building Culture: At 32 years old, McCollum plays a key role in developing the Pelicans' younger players, including Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. His work ethic and professionalism set a standard for the roster, contributing to a positive team culture. Off the court, his involvement in New Orleans community programs, like educational initiatives, strengthens the team's local ties and fan engagement.
• Impact 3: Influencing NBA Player Advocacy and Policies: As NBPA President since 2021, McCollum represents over 450 players in negotiations on issues like revenue sharing and health protocols. His leadership has been pivotal in recent collective bargaining agreements, ensuring fair conditions for athletes. This role amplifies his impact beyond basketball, affecting league-wide decisions and player welfare.

Looking ahead, CJ McCollum's future with the New Orleans Pelicans centers on sustaining high-level performance and guiding the team toward championship contention. With his contract extending through 2026, he remains a cornerstone of their backcourt, and his continued health and scoring efficiency will be vital as the Pelicans navigate a competitive Western Conference. Off the court, his NBPA presidency positions him to shape the NBA's evolution, from labor relations to social initiatives. As McCollum balances on-court excellence with off-court leadership, his legacy is expanding beyond individual stats to encompass team success and league-wide influence, making him a pivotal figure in modern basketball.