The New Orleans Pelicans have made a move to enhance their roster by signing versatile forward Kaiser Gates to a two-way NBA contract, according to insider Shams Charania of The Athletic. This exciting acquisition brings an impressive shooting touch and a well-rounded game to the Pelicans, adding depth and firepower to their squad as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season.
The New Orleans Pelicans are signing forward Kaiser Gates on a two-way NBA contract, sources tell @TheAthletic@Stadium. Gates averaged 14 points on 55.4 percent 3-point shooting for G League Long Island last season.
Gates, who spent the previous season with the G League’s Long Island Nets, made a strong case for his NBA return with a remarkable performance. A former standout at Xavier University, Gates showcased his skills and versatility, averaging 14.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. What truly sets him apart is his sharpshooting skill’s, as he boasted a jaw-dropping 55.4 percent shooting percentage from beyond the arc.
The 6-foot-8, 217-pound forward’s journey to the NBA has been marked by resilience and hard work. After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA Draft, Gates embarked on a four-year journey in the G League, honing his skills and fine-tuning his game. His remarkable career averages of 12.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game underscore his consistent impact on the court.
Notably, Gates has been a reliable three-point threat throughout his G League tenure, shooting an impressive 38.6 percent from long-range in regular season games. This proficiency from downtown aligns perfectly with the modern NBA’s emphasis on perimeter shooting, making Gates a valuable asset for the Pelicans.
The Pelicans’ decision to sign Gates to a two-way contract means he will have the opportunity to split his playing time between the NBA and the G League, providing valuable depth for the team while continuing to develop his skills.
This move also opens up the possibility for New Orleans to add another two-way player to their roster alongside Dereon Seabron, as reported by Christian Clark of NOLA.com.
As the 26-year-old forward prepares to don the Pelicans’ jersey, the franchise and its fans can expect an infusion of energy and shooting touch that may prove pivotal in their quest for success in the 2023 NBA season.
