Pelicans, Jose Alvarado Sign Two-Year $9M Extension

Alright, hoops fans, buckle up because there’s a lot to unpack here about Jose Alvarado and the New Orleans Pelicans!

Alvarado’s Big Payday

So, here’s the scoop: Jose Alvarado just secured a sweet two-year, $9 million extension with the Pelicans. Shams Charania broke the news, and it’s a solid move for both sides. Alvarado had one year left on his old deal, but now he’s locked in through 2025-26, with a player option for the 2026-27 season. His salary for 2025-26? A cool $4.5 million.

Bobby Marks from ESPN chimed in, noting that Alvarado’s $1.9 million club option for 2024-25 is now guaranteed. So, it’s all smiles for Jose as he gets some financial security.

As part of the two-year $9M Jose Alvarado extension in New Orleans, sources confirm that the $2M non-guaranteed salary for this year will get guaranteed.

The extension starts at $4.5M and contains a player option in 2026-27.

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42)

From Georgia Tech to NBA Sixth Man

Jose’s journey is pretty inspiring. He started with a two-way contract back in 2021 after balling out at Georgia Tech. Fast forward to last season, and he finished sixth in the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year voting. Not too shabby for a guy who went undrafted, right?

In 56 games off the bench last season, Alvarado averaged 7.1 points, 2.3 boards, 2.1 dimes, and 1.1 steals in just over 18 minutes a game. He shot a career-best 37.7% from deep. Oh, and remember that game against the Heat? Dude dropped 17 points on 50% shooting, including 4-of-7 from downtown.

Alvarado’s Role Behind Dejounte Murray

Looking ahead, Alvarado’s set to be a key piece off the bench behind Dejounte Murray, who the Pels snagged from Atlanta. In my opinion, this duo could be electric. Alvarado’s best season so far was his sophomore year, where he put up career highs across the board. Coach Willie Green loves the guy, saying, “It starts with his heart. He plays with his heart and soul every game.”

“Jose has been a big part of our culture,”

– Bryson Graham on Jose Alvarado #Pelicans

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA)

Playoff Hopes and Dreams

The Pelicans are gunning for back-to-back playoff appearances for the first time since ’08-’09. They haven’t made it past the conference semis since 2017-18 when they ran into the buzzsaw that was the Warriors, led by Curry and KD. Can they break the curse this year? Only time will tell.

So, what do you think? Can Alvarado and the Pelicans make some noise in the playoffs? Drop your thoughts below!