The New Orleans Pelicans are set to be up for lots of changes in the new season.
The team has got assets in a trade to acquire point guard Dejounte Murray and signed a roster without a true centre.
The only thing that remains clear at the moment is that adjustments are on the way.
When reporting on the Pelicans, many journalists make parallels to CJ McCollum playing the role of a backup, but he certainly does not look pleased about it.
“I’m not going to volunteer to be a reserve. But if that’s what the coach wants, I’m ready to accept it. After all, for me, the most important thing is to compete at the highest level.” Mccallum said.
“I’m not paid to coach the team, but to do what they ask of me. That’s the mentality I’m going to start the season with. I’ve been a quality player for years and I’m going to keep it that way,” McCallum added.
McCollum wasn’t a starter when he first started with the Portland Trail Blazers. But he hasn’t started a game on the bench since his third season in the league.
He’s been in the starting lineup in each of his last 631 games, for the Blazers and Pelicans. The shooter, however, admits that doesn’t guarantee him a ‘fixed spot’ on the team.
“I still don’t believe we can confidently name our starting five. Some aspects will vary during the year depending on the opponents and injuries, for instance.” McCallum said.
“There are many things that may come up during the campaign process that enable us change and come up with other alternatives.”
“However, if it is necessary for us to win that I become a reserve, then I will do that willingly. ‘Getting a win will always remain the ultimate goal,” he added.
