New Orleans Pelicans extended contract for the wing player Hollis Thompson for another 10 days on Sunday, March 5. Thompson played fairly well in the seven games after he signed the first short-term contract.
New Orleans Pelicans head coach Alvin Gentry like him because of his defensive abilities according to CBS Sports. Despite he only averaged 3.9 points and 2.9 rebounds, but his defensive skill is able to limit the opponent offensive play. He has gained the trust from coach Gentry as the starting shooting guard in the last four games.
Thompson was listed as the starting lineup in the Sunday night game against Los Angeles Lakers, even before he signed his contract. He played for 25 minutes, contributing only one point and three assists in the 105-97 victory against the home team at Staples Center. He is expected to improve his scoring in order to make him a permanent started for shooting guard in the Pelicans.
Coach Gentry considered him to be a solid starter in an interview with The Times-Picayune. The coach said, "'I think he's solid and we like our rotation with E'Twaun Moore coming off the bench."
Furthermore, coach Gentry said Thompson has been a pleasant surprise for the New Orleans Pelicans. He commended Thompson ability to shore up the defense for the Pelicans.
The 6'8" player is able to play for both shooting guard and small forward position. He was going undrafted in 2012 NBA Draft after finishing his college basketball career with Georgetown Hoyas. He signed the contract with Oklahoma City Thunder that sent him to NBA Development League team Tulsa 66ers.
Afterward, he signed with Philadelphia 76ers in 2013 and played with the Sixers for three seasons. He was waived by the 76ers in January 2017 and returned to NBA D-League. He signed his first 10-day-contract with Pelicans on Feb. 23, and made his debut right away in the game against Houston Rockets at night.
Watch the news of his signing the second 10-day contract with the Pelicans below:
