​The New Orleans Pelicans had an open spot on the training camp roster after waiving Taj Gibson, whom they received from the Memphis Grizzlies in the Jordan Hawkins trade. They used it on someone who could compete for a two-way spot.Christian Shumate was a member of the Birmingham Squadron last year, the Pelicans’ G League affiliate. He posted 12.3 points and 6.6 rebounds a night on 54.2/33.3/44.9 shooting splits. Shumate will compete for a two-way spot, or at least a spot on the Squadron once against as they move to Laketown.
Here is where the roster currently stands after the deal: GuardsPG Jeremiah FearsPG Dejounte MurrayCombo Guard Jordan PooleSG AJ JohnsonSG Jaron Pierre Jr.  – Two-Way ContractG Kobe Bufkin – Training CampThis is an interesting group of players. Murray is the likely starter, as this team hopes to get back to the postseason. He was strong in his return from injury last year, and that was in a very limited role. This campaign could be a nice reminder why the team traded for him in the first place, as he has faced a ton of adversity since arriving. Meanwhile, Fears is focused on becoming a future star in this league. He showed a great scoring acumen as a rookie, but needs to iron out the edges of his game before they put him back in the starting lineup.WingsSF/SG Trey Murphy IIISG/SF Herbert Jones Jr.SG Bennedict MathurinF Saddiq BeySG/SF Bryce McGowensSG/SF Caleb Houstan – Training CampSF/PF Christian Shumate – Training CampThis could be the heart and soul of this team. Murphy made a leap last year and is nearing All-Star status. Jones’ defense transforms the lineup whenever he is on the court. Mathurin was this offseason’s big addition. The team is hoping he can provide a steadier hand on offense and a tough attitude on defense off the bench. Bey was a savior at times last year, and is facing a contract year.BigsPF Zion WilliamsonC Yves MissiC/F Derik QueenC Karlo MatkovicC DeAndre JordanF Trendon WatfordF Malik Dia – Two-Way ContractC Christian Koloko – Training CampWhile the wings could be the soul, these bigs could decide whether or not this is a good team. Williamson’s health remains an X-Factor. Missi has had a fun offseason, and his growth on defense could be the missing piece the starting group needed. Queen is in a similar spot to Fears.