Elfrid Payton’s NBA journey has always been a tale of perseverance. But the past few weeks seemed straight out of a storybook. After a 920-day hiatus from the league, the $2.5 million guard not only clawed his way back but delivered a performance for the ages – a 21-assist masterpiece for the Pelicans that reignited hope in his hoops career.

Yet, in a BIG twist befitting the unpredictable nature of professional sports, New Orleans has decided to part ways with the 30-year-old! Senior NBA Insider, Michael Scotto tweeted the shocking news on X. He mentioned the reason was the Pels were projected to be over the tax next season. And as such, wanted to make a “cost-saving move.”

“The New Orleans Pelicans will waive guard Elfrid Payton. He recently returned to the NBA after a 2.5-year layoff and had a career-high 21 assists. Despite being a favorite of coach Willie Green, the Pelicans are projected to be over the tax and make a cost-saving move.”

The decision is even harder to swallow, considering the impact Payton had in his short stint with the team. From the moment he signed on Nov. 20, the nine-year veteran proved he still belonged, averaging 6.7 points, 6.9 assists, and 3.4 rebounds in just 20.6 minutes per game. His standout performance—14 points, 21 assists, and 7 rebounds against the Indiana Pacers—was a triumphant reminder of his court vision and playmaking ability.

It was clear Elfrid Payton was more than just a feel-good comeback story. He was helping the Pelicans stay competitive during a challenging stretch! They’re currently 4-18. And unsurprisingly, fans across social media expressed their dismay at the Pels’ move.

The Pelicans face fan backlash over Elfrid Payton’s release: “The audacity”

One fan summarized the collective heartbreak perfectly, commenting, “NBA is a cruel game man.” After waiting for two years to make his NBA comeback and delivering a 21-assist performance, Payton’s release felt like a gut punch for all those who were rooting for his resurgence. The fact that the Pelicans are at the bottom of the West doesn’t help their case, either. As of now, Elfrid Payton is their best player. And they just let him go. It’s only natural that fans would be outraged.

Another fan sought to comfort themselves with a rather harsh reality check. “Its a Cold world,” followed by a crying-with-a-smile emoji. Professional sports, unfortunately, isn’t only about passion. There is a business side to it, too. As such, financial decisions and luxury tax concerns often outweigh heartwarming comeback stories. For fans, Payton’s release serves as a stark reminder that no matter how inspiring the narrative, the league remains unforgiving.

A direct nod to Elfrid’s standout performance against the Pacers, this next fan wrote, “Bro was cooking wtf,” the shock apparent. This comment effectively captures the majority sentiment about the Pelicans’ decision to waive a player who was not only producing on-court but actively contributing his best in a tough stretch. It highlights how his play seemed to warrant more than just ‘a brief stint’.

Yet another fan had just two words for the Pels: “The audacity.” The rest, they decided to express with a GIF.

It echoes the frustration of fans who feel New Orleans’ front office failed to recognize Payton’s impact. Despite being a favorite of Coach Green (even being teammates in the 2014-15 Magic season), and a key figure of late, the franchise’s decision has many questioning their priorities.

And finally, this user couldn’t have summarized the rollercoaster the Michigan native endured better. “NBA be too brutal sometimes. From 21 assists in a game to this,” they noted, emphasizing how quickly fortunes can change in the NBA.

Just days after being a hero on the court, he was shown the door. Truly heartbreaking!

But that night in Indiana will forever be etched in Elfrid Payton’s mind. “I know I have more ahead of me, but that was a special night — one I know I won’t forget.”