The Pelicans announced today that they have officially signed guard Nate Robinson (photo by Shinya Suzuki). The 10 year NBA veteran has played for 7 different NBA teams. Last year, he appeared in 42 games for the Nuggets and Clippers, where he averaged 5.7 points, 2.3 assists, and 1.2 rebounds in just over 14 minutes per game. Those raw numbers aren’t too bad, but Robinson did see his shooting percentages dip below his career averages. Some of his advanced stats also suggest he has regressed as he’s aged. While he may not be Krypto-Nate anymore,  Robinson does bring veteran experience and fills a need for the Pelicans.

The diminutive guard was brought in after injuries to Norris Cole and Tyreke Evans, whose status should be updated today according to Jim Eichenhofer. Along with signing Robinson, the Pelicans also announced that they have waived big man Mirza Begić to meet the off season roster limit of 20 players. Begić was always going to be a project and long shot to make the roster. Still, it could be a concern that injuries have forced the Pelicans to bring in experienced players at the expense of younger guys.

It’s no secret that injuries have been piling up for the Pelicans. Given our recent history, it is understandable why some fans feel they have reason to worry. However, as of right now, we don’t have a timetable for Evans, and it looks like most of the injuries will be cleared up without compromising too much of the regular season. Also, these constant roster changes should be expected during the preseason. This is the time to bring in and evaluate a lot of different guys for those last couple of spots on the bench. Nevertheless, when you read “injury” and “Pelicans”, it is hard not to be at least a bit concerned. But let’s not scream the sky is falling just yet.

We’ll keep you up to date on any new injury news and analysis when the time comes.

Update: Tyreke Evans will get his knee checked for soreness and won’t play Saturday against the Kings.