Pelicans ink veteran center DeAndre Jordan to a deal
The New Orleans Pelicans added much-needed frontline depth by signing veteran big man DeAndre Jordan to a one-year, $3.6 million deal.
Jordan has spent the last three seasons with the Denver Nuggets, where he was part of the 2023 NBA champion team. He has taken on a more limited role off the bench, providing dependable play and depth.
Last season, Jordan proved to be a strong asset off the bench, playing in 56 games, averaging 3.7 points and 5.1 rebounds in 12.3 minutes per game.
The 37-year-old is entering a situation in which the Pelicans have already been affected by injuries. Center Kevon Looney is already missing the start of the season with a left knee injury, while Yves Missi missed Friday’s game against the San Antonio Spurs after twisting his ankle on Wednesday against the Memphis Grizzlies.
It has left New Orleans depending on rookie Derik Queen and Hunter Dickinson to step into significant roles.
Although Jordan didn’t play against San Antonio, he will likely see action on Monday night at home against the Boston Celtics. He has shown he is still a factor on the glass while providing some rim protection.
Jordan will likely play an extended role for the time being due to the frontcourt injuries, but once that situation clears up, his playing time should be sporadic.
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He is in his 18th season, averaging 8.5 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks while shooting 67.4 percent from the floor. The Pelicans have dropped their first two games of the season.
