The New Orleans Pelicans added guard AJ Johnson in an offseason trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, sending out Jordan Hawkins. Johnson, a former first-round pick, arrives with limited NBA production and faces a key season to prove his worth. The team's immediate focus is on winning, showed by a recent 1W-4L stretch that includes a 132-126 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 13.
New Orleans needs shooting, especially from the guard position. Johnson's career splits of 35.7% from the field and 24.5% from three-point range are a significant concern. He did flash potential during a 20-game G League stint years ago, hitting 41.9% on 4.7 attempts per night. That high volume hasn't translated to consistent NBA success yet. His 85.7% free-throw mark suggests the mechanics might be there, but the Pelicans can't afford another non-shooter on the floor.
Listed at just 175 pounds, Johnson won't be expected to provide stout defense. His value must come on offense. As a rookie, he showed glimpses of playmaking with five games of at least six assists, including a career-high eight. Last season offered little of that promise. For a team in a competitive Western Conference, every possession matters. Johnson needs to demonstrate he can create for others when his shot isn't falling.
The Pelicans hold a $5.5 million team option on Johnson's contract for next season, with a deadline of October 31. Picking it up would be surprising, as the team just moved on from Jordan Hawkins in a similar situation. Johnson is only 21, but he hasn't shown enough in 77 career games (averaging 4.9 points 1.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists) to justify the commitment. With limited roster space, there's even a chance he's cut after training camp, though his guaranteed contract makes that less likely unless performance is poor.
New Orleans is in a win-now mode. Recent results like the 144-118 loss to Boston on April 10 and the 156-137 win over Utah on April 8 show an explosive but inconsistent team. Johnson must find a specific skill-be it shooting, passing, or energy-that makes the Pelicans prefer him over other available options. He has a short window to answer these questions and secure his place on a roster aiming to climb the standings.
