CJ McCollum wants to finish his career in New Orleans.
The Pelicans forward, who was traded from Portland in February and eligible for a contract extension this summer, says he has no plans on leaving his new team.
“I’m not going nowhere, I’m here,” he told Andscape. “Where am I going to go? Leave for what? I want to retire here. I’m 30 years old and I have a son who is 13 weeks old. I’m married. When you have something good, you hold on to it. This is something fun for both sides. We’re going to grow. I’m still learning the city. I’m going to find a house.”
Since joining the Pelicans, McCollum has averaged 24.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game in 26 games. He helped New Orleans reach the playoffs through the play-in game despite not having star first-round pick Zion Williamson.
McCollum has one year remaining on his contract before he can become a free agent in 2024, but the Pelicans can sign him to a three-year extension beginning Aug. 9.
“I can’t say anything about that,” McCollum said. “We haven’t talked yet. I haven’t talked to upper management. But I told my wife before I left [Portland] that ‘Where I go, I want to fninish my career.’ I told my agent that. I’m not about bouncing around I don’t go through free agency. I’ve been in the league nine year. Have you ever seen me be a free agent?
“When I’m committed to something, I’m committed to it. New Orleans, in my mind, I’m finishing my career here. That is how I devote myself to a city, things and people.”
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