Last Updated on July 14, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Since entering the NBA in 2002 as the New Orleans Hornets and becoming the Pelicans in 2013, the franchise has featured a number of outstanding three-point shooters. From the elite shot-making of Peja Stojaković to CJ McCollum’s high-volume scoring and Trey Murphy III’s emerging stardom, New Orleans has steadily embraced the modern three-point game.

Although the franchise has often been built around dominant interior players like Chris Paul, Anthony Davis and Zion Williamson, perimeter shooting has remained an essential part of its offensive identity.

What Makes a Great Three-Point Shooter?

This ranking considers:

  • Total three-pointers made with the franchise
  • Three-point shooting percentage
  • Shooting volume
  • Shot difficulty
  • Longevity with New Orleans
  • Playoff performances
  • Overall offensive impact

Best New Orleans Pelicans Three-Point Shooters

1. CJ McCollum

CJ McCollum is the greatest three-point shooter in New Orleans Pelicans history.

One of the NBA’s most polished offensive guards, McCollum brought elite shot creation, deep shooting range and veteran leadership to New Orleans after arriving from Portland. His ability to score off the catch, off the dribble and in late-game situations has made him the franchise’s most complete perimeter shooter.

McCollum quickly climbed the franchise leaderboard for made three-pointers while serving as one of the team’s primary offensive leaders.

Why he ranks first

  • Franchise leader in made three-pointers
  • Elite shot creator
  • Outstanding pull-up shooter
  • Excellent clutch scorer
  • High-volume perimeter threat

2. Peja Stojaković

Although his time in New Orleans was relatively short, Peja Stojaković delivered some of the finest perimeter shooting the franchise has ever seen.

Already one of the NBA’s greatest shooters, Stojaković played a key role alongside Chris Paul during New Orleans’ rise into Western Conference contention.

Career strengths

  • One of the NBA’s greatest pure shooters
  • Elite shooting percentage
  • Outstanding movement shooter
  • Three-time NBA All-Star

3. Trey Murphy III

Trey Murphy III has rapidly become one of the NBA’s premier young shooters.

His effortless shooting mechanics, deep range and athletic finishing make him one of the league’s most dangerous wings. Murphy’s combination of efficiency and volume suggests he could eventually become the franchise’s all-time leader in made three-pointers.

Career strengths

  • Elite catch-and-shoot player
  • Outstanding athleticism
  • Excellent three-point percentage
  • High-upside scorer

4. Ryan Anderson

Ryan Anderson helped redefine the stretch-four position during his New Orleans career.

His ability to consistently knock down deep three-pointers forced opposing big men away from the basket and created valuable spacing for the offense.

Career strengths

  • Elite shooting for a power forward
  • High-volume shooter
  • Excellent pick-and-pop player
  • NBA Most Improved Player

5. Jrue Holiday

Jrue Holiday developed into one of the NBA’s premier two-way guards while in New Orleans.

Although known primarily for his defense and playmaking, Holiday consistently provided reliable three-point shooting throughout his tenure.

Career strengths

  • Excellent pull-up shooter
  • Elite defender
  • Outstanding basketball IQ
  • Multiple-time All-Defensive selection

6. David Wesley

David Wesley was one of the franchise’s earliest dependable perimeter shooters following its move to New Orleans.

His veteran leadership and accurate outside shooting helped stabilize the young organization.

Career strengths

  • Reliable spot-up shooter
  • Veteran leadership
  • Excellent floor spacer
  • Strong offensive efficiency

7. Chris Paul

Chris Paul is remembered as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history.

While his passing and mid-range game defined his career, Paul consistently knocked down timely three-pointers that forced defenders to respect every aspect of his offensive game.

Career strengths

  • Elite basketball IQ
  • Reliable perimeter shooting
  • Outstanding playmaker
  • Franchise legend

8. Buddy Hield

Although Buddy Hield spent only part of his rookie season with New Orleans before being traded, his natural shooting talent was immediately evident.

His quick release and deep range hinted at the elite shooter he would later become.

Career strengths

  • Elite shooting mechanics
  • Deep shooting range
  • Excellent catch-and-shoot player
  • Natural scorer

9. Brandon Ingram

Brandon Ingram steadily improved his three-point shooting after arriving in New Orleans.

His ability to create difficult shots from the perimeter complements one of the league’s smoothest offensive games.

Career strengths

  • Elite shot creator
  • Reliable pull-up shooter
  • NBA All-Star
  • Versatile scorer

10. Devonte’ Graham

Devonte’ Graham became known for his willingness to launch deep three-pointers from well beyond the arc.

His range added another dimension to New Orleans’ offense during his time with the franchise.

Career strengths

  • Unlimited shooting confidence
  • Excellent long-range shooter
  • High-volume attempts
  • Strong floor spacing

Honorable Mentions

  • Zion Williamson
  • Anthony Davis
  • Eric Gordon
  • Anthony Morrow
  • Marco Belinelli
  • E’Twaun Moore
  • Nickeil Alexander-Walker
  • Lonzo Ball
  • Herbert Jones
  • Jordan Hawkins

The Evolution of Three-Point Shooting in New Orleans

The franchise’s early success centered around Chris Paul’s playmaking and interior scoring, with elite shooters like Peja Stojaković and David Wesley providing valuable floor spacing. As the NBA increasingly emphasized perimeter offense, players such as Ryan Anderson, Jrue Holiday and Buddy Hield continued that evolution. Today, CJ McCollum and Trey Murphy III form one of the Western Conference’s most dangerous shooting duos, creating space for Zion Williamson and the Pelicans’ dynamic offense.

Final Thoughts

CJ McCollum ranks as the greatest three-point shooter in New Orleans Pelicans history thanks to his franchise-record production, elite shot creation and consistent scoring. Peja Stojaković remains one of the purest shooters ever to wear the franchise’s uniform, while Trey Murphy III is rapidly building a résumé that could eventually place him at the top of this list. Ryan Anderson and Jrue Holiday round out an outstanding top five, representing the evolution of three-point shooting throughout New Orleans basketball history.