New Orleans Pelicans' Quiet Offseason Raises Eyebrows Around the NBA
The New Orleans Pelicans have been one of the quietest teams in the league this offseason, much to the chagrin of their fanbase and outsiders wondering exactly what the team's long-term goals are. Despite coming off back-to-back sub-30 win seasons, the Pelicans have made no significant roster additions, re-signing only 37-year-old center DeAndre Jordan and adding second-round draft pick Jaron Pierre Jr.
What Happened?
The Pelicans had a desperate need for viable size in the middle and outside shooting, but none of those issues were addressed in the offseason. The team took a swing and a miss last offseason after signing veteran center Kevon Looney to a two-year deal, who appeared in just 21 games and averaged 2.8 points per game. The team declined his second-year option, saving them approximately $8 million in salary cap space.
Why It Matters for New Orleans Pelicans
President of basketball operations Joe Dumars told reporters this summer he envisions both Zion Williamson and Derik Queen getting plenty of playing time together. Expecting a Williamson-Queen frontcourt to hold down the paint is a massive defensive gamble, as the team had one of the worst defensive ratings when the duo shared the court last season. Both require a rim-protecting, rebounding frontcourt teammate to compensate for their defensive limitations, yet no such anchor was brought in.
What Comes Next?
There are multiple rumors circulating about Trey Murphy III, the team's best outside shooter, and his potential availability this summer. Whether any of the outside chatter is a distraction to him is unknown, but potentially creating unnecessary friction with one of their few legitimate bright spots is head-scratching as well. The team's guaranteed two-year deal given to the veteran Jordan and the lack of a deal to move either of the high-priced guards Jordan Poole or Dejounte Murray are also question marks around the organization.
The recent form of the New Orleans Pelicans has been a concern, with a recent loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves 132-126 (2026-04-13) and a recent form of 1W-0D-4L (LLLLW, most recent first). The team's lack of direction and the overall lack of roster changes have left fans and outsiders wondering what the team's long-term goals are.
The Pelicans' head coach, Jamahl Mosley, has been under scrutiny for his team's performance, and the lack of roster changes has raised eyebrows around the league. The team's inability to address fundamental flaws and their reliance on a core that has underperformed in the past has left many questioning the team's direction. The recent loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves has added to the concerns, and the team's recent form of 1W-0D-4L (LLLLW, most recent first) has left fans and outsiders wondering what the team's next move will be.
