The New Orleans Pelicans are looking to sign a center in free agency. They have $15 million to spend and need to stay under the luxury tax.
What happened?
The Pelicans didn't make any moves in the 2026 NBA draft, so they need to find a deal in free agency. Their recent form has been poor, with a record of 0W-0D-2L, including a 136-111 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on 2025-04-11.
Why it matters for New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans need rebounding and rim protection, which is why they are looking for a center. Robert Williams III is an option, as he averaged 6.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game last season. He is also a Shreveport native, so it would be a homecoming for him.
What comes next?
The Pelicans also have Jusuf Nurkic and Mitchell Robinson as options. Nurkic shot 35.2% from three last season and averaged 10.9 points and 10.4 rebounds per game. Robinson averaged 8.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game last season and would be a fan-favorite choice. He went to high school in Chalmette and it would be a great story to bring him back.
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Blocks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Williams III | 6.7 | 7.0 | 1.5 |
| Jusuf Nurkic | 10.9 | 10.4 | 0.5 |
| Mitchell Robinson | 8.8 | 1.2 |
The Pelicans need to make a move in free agency to improve their team. They have the money to spend and the need for a center, so it will be interesting to see what they do. And with their recent form being poor, they need to make a change to turn their season around. But for now, they are looking at their options and trying to find the best fit for their team. So the next few days will be interesting for the Pelicans as they try to sign a center and improve their team. Last result: Milwaukee Bucks 136-111 New Orleans Pelicans (2025-04-11). Recent form (last 2): 0W-0D-2L (LL, most recent first); lost the last 2.
