When Lance Stephenson recovers from surgery to repair a groin injury later this season, the NBA swingman will be looking for a new job yet again.
According to multiple reports, the Pelicans plan to release Stephenson on Monday and sign former Suns guard Archie Goodwin as the club looks for a catalyst to help them win their first game of the season.
Stephenson is expected to be sidelined six to 10 weeks after suffering the injury in Friday's loss to the Suns, according to The Vertical. The 26-year-old joined the Pelicans on a partially guaranteed contract for training camp and played his way into a reserve-guard role before the injury.
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Stephenson has also played with the Pacers, Hornets, Clippers and Grizzlies in his seven-year career as his pattern of being a poor presence in the locker room precedes him. Stephenson's antics made him infamous when he was with the Pacers — especially when he blew in the ear of LeBron James during Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals four seasons ago.
Goodwin, a 6-5 shooting guard could quickly earn playing time for the Pelicans, who are without guards Jrue Holiday, Tyreke Evans and Quincy Pondexter.
A huge thanks to the @PelicansNBA organization. Forever grateful. Chapter 4 officially begins.
— Archie Goodwin (@A1Laflare10) November 7, 2016
Goodwin averaged 8.9 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.1 assists last season.