Pelicans officially add DeAndre Jordan amid early injury woes

The Pelicans have turned to a familiar name to bolster their battered frontcourt.

New Orleans has agreed to a one-year, minimum-salary deal with veteran center DeAndre Jordan, agent Jeff Schwartz told ESPN’s Shams Charania. The move became official shortly after, per the NBA transaction log.

Jordan, 37, gives the Pelicans some much-needed size and experience with Kevon Looney sidelined by a left knee sprain and Yves Missi (ankle) and Karlo Matkovic (back) both questionable for Friday’s game against San Antonio.

Rookie Derik Queen is active but still working his way back after wrist surgery.

The Pelicans created the roster spot Thursday by waiving guard Jaden Springer, who was on a non-guaranteed deal.

A 16-year NBA veteran, Jordan has logged over 1,100 games for seven teams since 2008. He’s a three-time All-NBA selection, two-time rebounding champ, and an NBA champion with Denver in 2023.

Last season with the Nuggets, he appeared in 56 games and averaged 3.7 points and 5.1 rebounds in just over 12 minutes per night as Nikola Jokic’s backup.

Jordan’s contract is a minimum deal worth roughly $3.6 million, with a cap hit of $2.27 million for New Orleans. While terms weren’t disclosed, it’s likely non-guaranteed, giving the Pelicans flexibility once their frontcourt stabilizes.

For now, they get a respected veteran who can rebound, protect the rim, and keep the paint sturdy while the roster heals.