New Orleans Pelicans announced on Tuesday that veteran center DeAndre Jordan will re‑sign for his 19th NBA campaign, extending his stay in the Gulf Coast market for the 2026‑27 season. The move was confirmed via NBA insider Chris Haynes on X, noting the 6‑foot‑11 big will stay under the Pelicans banner as free agency heats up.
What does the re‑signature mean for New Orleans Pelicans?
Jordan brings a rare blend of rim protection and rebounding. Twice named to the All‑Defensive First Team (2015, 2016) and a two‑time league rebounding leader (2014, 2015), his presence anchors the paint. The Pelicans already own the No. 13 pick Derik Queen and forward Yves Missi, but Jordan’s veteran savvy adds depth at center, allowing coach Willie Brown to rotate more aggressively in pick‑and‑roll sets.
How does the timing fit the team’s recent form?
The Pelicans entered the offseason on a rough note, dropping their last two games. Their most recent result was a 136‑111 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on April 11, 2025. Below is a quick snapshot of that stretch:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Last result | Milwaukee Bucks 136‑111 New Orleans Pelicans (2025‑04‑11) |
| Recent form (last 2) | 0W‑0D‑2L |
Those defeats highlighted defensive lapses that Jordan’s shot‑blocking and rim‑guarding can help mend. His career average of 2.3 blocks per game should lower opponents’ field‑goal percentage in the paint, a key metric the Pelicans struggled with against Milwaukee.
Why is Jordan’s return significant amid free‑agency chatter?
While the market buzzes about big names like James Harden, Draymond Green, and LeBron James, Jordan’s decision underscores a trend: seasoned big men still value stability over headline‑grabbing contracts. The Texas native, a Texas A&M Aggies alum, chose familiarity with New Orleans over a potentially higher‑priced deal elsewhere. His loyalty may also influence younger players, such as Derik Queen, who can learn the nuances of positioning and timing from a former All‑NBA First Team member.
What are the next steps for the Pelicans?
The official signing window opens at 12:01 p.m. ET on July 6, so the contract will be formalized then. In the meantime, the Pelicans will likely integrate Jordan into summer workouts, focusing on defensive drills and transition offense. Expect him to contribute immediate impact off the bench, providing at least 8‑10 points, 9‑11 rebounds, and 2‑3 blocks per game, numbers he consistently posted in his prime years.
And as the team looks to reverse its two‑game losing streak, Jordan’s veteran leadership could be the catalyst that steadies the Pelicans’ defense and fuels a push toward a playoff berth.