# New Orleans Pelicans’ $7.9M Jordan deal baffles fans—here’s why it costs more than it should
The New Orleans Pelicans handed DeAndre Jordan a fully guaranteed two-year, $7.9 million contract, a move that’s left fans scratching their heads. With the team’s recent slump—1W-0D-4L over their last five games, including a 132-126 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 13, 2026—every dollar spent is under the microscope, and this deal stands out as an avoidable misstep.
What exactly did the Pelicans do?
NBA insider Jake Fischer confirmed Sunday that Jordan’s deal is fully guaranteed for both seasons. That’s unusual for a veteran entering his 19th NBA season, especially after he played just 12 games last year. The Pelicans could’ve structured it as two one-year deals, saving about $3 million via the league’s veteran player reimbursement rule added to the CBA.
Why the backlash—Jordan’s not the issue
Here’s the catch: Jordan isn’t the problem. The 34-year-old center remains a locker-room leader and fan favorite, mentoring Derik Queen while providing a physical presence off the bench. His 10.2 rebounds per 36 minutes last season (when healthy) and 1.3 blocks per game make him a valuable veteran for a young roster. But the front office’s decision to fully guarantee the deal—when a player option in Year 2 would’ve worked—feels like unnecessary risk.
The bigger picture: small mistakes add up
This isn’t the first time the Pelicans’ financial moves have raised eyebrows. Remember the Derik Queen trade? They didn’t protect their second-round pick, a gamble that paid off—but the logic was flawed from the start. Now, with Brandon Ingram pushing for a playoff push and Zion Williamson carrying the load, every cent matters. Winning will fix everything, but fans are tired of watching small missteps pile up while the team struggles to stay above .500.
What’s next for Jordan and New Orleans?
Jordan’s role is clear: provide defense, mentor younger players, and stretch the floor when needed. But the Pelicans’ $7.9M commitment—when they could’ve saved money with a smarter structure—feels like a symbol of deeper issues. With Brandon Ingram (22.1 PPG this season) and Zion Williamson (28.3 PPG) leading the way, the team needs every advantage. Whether this deal helps or hurts remains to be seen—but the frustration is real.