Bennedict Mathurin Lands With Pelicans After Unusual Clippers Exit
Guard Bennedict Mathurin has found his next NBA home after agreeing to a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans.
The deal includes a second-year player option that will allow him to hit the open market next offseason if he desires.
Mathurin became available in free agency after his representatives approached the LA Clippers about withdrawing his $8.8 million qualifying offer. The move allowed him to ink a deal elsewhere, where he would have a better chance to secure a more favorable contract.
The Pelicans reportedly pursued Mathurin for over a year, viewing him as a potential key part of their young core group. The 24-year-old has proven to be a productive offensive force with dependable scoring prowess.
He is coming off a career-best posting of numbers across the board, averaging 17.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 0.8 steals. His 17.5 points per game off the bench last season were the most in the league.
The Clippers acquired Mathurin from the Indiana Pacers in a trade for Ivica Zubac. In 26 games with one start, he averaged 17.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists while shooting 42.6 percent from the floor and 20.7 percent from beyond the arc.
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Mathurin is joining a young Pelicans roster looking to take the next step toward playoff contention. He will be a primary scoring factor in the backcourt alongside Dejounte Murray, Jeremiah Fears, and Jordan Poole.
His addition may likely lead to Poole becoming the odd man out in the rotation next season.
