Bryce McGowens is preparing for New Orleans Pelicans training camp with a new three-year, $6.2 million contract and a clear role to fill. The team heads into camp looking to build momentum after a tough end to the 2025-26 season, which concluded with a 132-126 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 13, 2026.
What is Bryce McGowens' current career status?
McGowens was originally a second-round pick by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2022 NBA Draft. After stints with the Hornets and Portland Trail Blazers, he found a home in New Orleans last season. The Pelicans initially signed him to a two-way deal but were so impressed they promoted him to the full roster. Now 23, the former Nebraska Cornhusker is heading into his fifth NBA season with more confidence. His performance last year was a pleasant surprise. In 42 games for the Pelicans, McGowens posted averages of 8.1 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. Most impressively, he shot 48.1% from the field and 40.9% from three-point range. That near-41% mark from deep is a weapon any coaching staff wants coming off the bench.
Where must McGowens improve for the Pelicans?
His offensive efficiency is not in question. McGowens was trustworthy with the ball, taking good shots and rarely turning it over. The major area for growth is on the defensive end. Advanced metrics from CleaningTheGlass show the Pelicans' defense was 4.5 points worse per 100 possessions with him on the court last season. That rating placed him in the 18th percentile among NBA wings. Improving his individual defense and team awareness is essential. Rebounding is another weak spot. In a frontcourt where every possession matters, his 2.1 rebounds per game need to increase. He will be fighting for every minute on the wing, and better board work would help his case significantly. You can track the team's defensive progress and other key metrics on our stats page throughout the preseason.
What is the competition for playing time?
The fight for rotation minutes at the wing position will be intense. McGowens faces direct competition from players like Benedict Mathurin and Micah Peavy. Both players pose a significant threat to his playing time, especially if his defensive shortcomings persist. The Pelicans' recent form adds urgency to every roster decision. The team's last five games of the previous season resulted in a 1-4 record (LLWLL), and they lost their final two contests. Securing reliable bench production is key to turning those close losses into wins. The coaching staff knows what McGowens offers as a shooter. His challenge is to prove he can be a net positive on both ends of the floor. Training camp is his first opportunity to show that development. How he performs could shape the early-season rotation as the Pelicans look to climb the standings.
McGowens' journey from a two-way player to a rostered contributor is a solid NBA story. His shooting provides a specific, valuable skill. But the NBA is about complete players. This camp is about expanding his game beyond scoring. If he can become even an average defender and contribute more on the glass, his role will solidify. If not, the depth chart behind him is ready. The Pelicans need everyone to step up after a difficult finish, and McGowens is no exception.
