Pelicans Pay $7.9M for Jordan, Draw $3M Criticism

The New Orleans franchise finalized a two‑year, guaranteed $7.9 million contract with veteran big man DeAndre Jordan, but insiders are already labeling the move a budgeting blunder.

League insiders note that the NBA’s veteran‑minimum proration only applies to one‑year deals, so the Pelicans will bear the full $7.9 million rather than splitting the cost across two seasons.

The extra expense is roughly $3 million compared with what the league would have covered had Jordan been signed to separate one‑year contracts.

Deal Geometry Leads to $3M Over‑Spend

Under the collective bargaining agreement, a player’s veteran minimum is prorated only for a single‑year pact, meaning the team cannot rely on league subsidies for a multi‑year deal.

By opting for a two‑year, $7.9 million guarantee, the Pelicans effectively shoulder the entire amount that the league would have contributed in a one‑year scenario.

This structural nuance is what critics say cost the franchise an additional $3 million over the life of the contract.

Criticism From Inside the League

Aust­in Robert, a league‑affiliated observer, took to social media to highlight the perceived error, quoting an insider who claimed Pelicans official Joe Dumars didn’t grasp the CBA rule.

Robert’s tweet went on to argue that splitting the contract into two one‑year deals would have saved the team the extra $3 million, calling the decision “an entirely unforced error.”

An NBA analyst later echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the mistake will hit the team’s books directly, not the league’s.

Jordan’s Statistical Impact and Team Role

During his brief stint with New Orleans, Jordan logged just 12 games, starting seven, and posted averages of 4.4 points and 6.3 rebounds per contest.

Despite the limited on‑court numbers, he is viewed as a valuable locker‑room presence and a mentor to rising star Derik Queen, the Pelicans’ 2025 lottery pick.

His experience is also meant to complement the frontcourt that currently features Queen, Yves Missi and Zion Williamson.

Why the Pelicans Needed Jordan

New Orleans declined Kevon Looney’s $8 million team option, leaving a hole in the paint that Jordan is expected to fill.

The roster currently relies on a mix of young talent—Queen, Missi and Williamson—and the franchise wanted additional frontcourt depth to compete.

Jordan also brings championship pedigree, having won a title with the Denver Nuggets in 2023.

Jordan’s Career Context

This contract moves Jordan into his 19th NBA season, bringing him closer to his stated goal of reaching two decades in the league.

Having appeared in multiple All‑Star games, Jordan is intended to serve as both a scorer and a defensive anchor, albeit in a limited role.

The deal also aligns with the Pelicans’ strategy of pairing experienced veterans with their emerging talent pool.