# Pelicans Rumors: New Orleans' Interest in 16.2 PPG Guard Takes Intriguing Turn
Being in restricted free agency is not the easiest position to be in, as a slew of players are learning the hard way. One of them is Bennedict Mathurin, who remains on the market amid lukewarm to no interest from other teams. The Los Angeles Clippers are in no hurry to sign Mathurin to a huge contract extension, and there are no other teams stepping up to give him an offer sheet. But that may change soon courtesy of the New Orleans Pelicans.
According to Brett Siegel, NBA insider for ClutchPoints, the Pelicans are being brought up as a potential landing spot for Mathurin amid a prolonged stint for the 24-year-old scoring wing in restricted free agency. Siegel wrote that there is “new interest” in Mathurin, and it is interesting that New Orleans is involved once more in talks revolving around the Clippers guard.
The Pelicans showed interest in trading for Mathurin prior to the 2026 NBA trade deadline. There were rumblings regarding a potential swap with the Indiana Pacers involving Yves Missi, but in the end, the Pacers chose to include Mathurin in their blockbuster deal for Ivica Zubac, which also ended up costing them the fifth overall selection of the 2026 NBA Draft (Keaton Wagler).
ClutchQuiz LeBron James' famous chasedown block in Game 7 of the 2016 Finals denied which player at the rim? Mathurin is not alone in learning the reality of restricted free agency the hard way. Two other solid young pieces in Jalen Duren, who even made it to the All-NBA Third Team, and Peyton Watson continue to sit in RFA limbo. There are even rumors that those two could play on the qualifying offer next season in hopes of boosting their value ahead of their foray to unrestricted free agency next year.
Last season, Mathurin averaged 17.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists on 43/32/87 shooting splits. Any team in need of a scoring boost would do well to give him a call, and the Pelicans, a team in asset accumulation mode, may simply be doing their due diligence.
What Happened?
The New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly showing interest in Bennedict Mathurin, a 24-year-old scoring wing in restricted free agency. Mathurin remains on the market amid lukewarm to no interest from other teams.
Why It Matters for New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans' interest in Mathurin could be a significant boost to their roster. With recent form showing 1 win, 0 draws, and 4 losses (LLWLL), the team may be looking to add a scoring punch to their lineup.
What Comes Next?
The Pelicans will likely continue to explore their options for Mathurin, but it remains to be seen if they will be able to secure a deal. With the 2026 NBA Draft just around the corner, the team may be looking to add some young talent to their roster.
