The New Orleans Pelicans caught the NBA world off guard by adding a star to their roster after just one game into the 2025-2026 season. With the Western Conference filled with talented teams, some may argue that the Pelicans would struggle to qualify for the playoffs.
Despite having Zion Williamson, Jordan Poole, and several other talented stars on their roster, the Pelicans are still missing pieces that will likely prevent them from making the postseason.
In an attempt to address their weaknesses, the Pelicans added an experienced and accomplished NBA center to their roster. Although it is too soon to know for sure, let’s take a closer look at their latest acquisition and its potential impact on the team.
Can DeAndre Jordan Help Zion Williamson and the Pelicans Find Success?
Although DeAndre Jordan is 37 years old and in the backend of his career, he has found a way to remain relevant in the league. Due to his sheer size and experience, Jordan is capable of protecting the rim and finishing lobs with relative ease.
Jordan came off the bench for the Denver Nuggets in the 2024-25 season, averaging 3.7 points and 5.1 rebounds in just over 12 minutes of action per game. The numbers speak for themselves and indicate that Jordan can still prove himself a winning basketball asset. Jordan also won a ring with the Nuggets after defeating the Miami Heat in the 2023 NBA Finals.
Senior NBA Insider Shams Charania was among the first to report on Jordan signing a new deal with the Pelicans.
He wrote on X, “Free agent center DeAndre Jordan is signing a one-year, $3.6 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management tells ESPN. The one-time All-NBA big man and 2023 champion enters his 18th season in the league.”
Free agent center DeAndre Jordan is signing a one-year, $3.6 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans, Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports Management tells ESPN. The one-time All-NBA big man and 2023 champion enters his 18th season in the league. pic.twitter.com/kDRJE4Cnem
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 24, 2025
Adding Jordan to a veteran minimum contract extension worth $3.6 million is a small move that is not expected to transform the Pelicans drastically. However, there is no denying that the team can use his interior presence, rebounding, and leadership.
The decision to add Jordan to their roster came after the Pelicans lost their season opener against Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies. Although making a change to their roster one game into the season could be considered hasty, the Pelicans organization undoubtedly feels that this is a step in the right direction.
Also Read: NBA Fans React To Zion Williamson’s Performance In Pelicans-Grizzlies Game
The first 10-15 games of the season are crucial for teams looking to firmly cement their spot in the postseason. Their next three matchups will not be easy. Adding the veteran center to their lineup might not be enough to help the Pelicans win over teams such as the Spurs, Celtics, and Nuggets. But it will surely set them in the groove for the coming seasons, and help build team chemistry with experience.
In any case, Jordan will now enter Year 18 of his career with the Pelicans, mostly coming off the bench and leading the second unit. Fans wonder if his acquisition will change the team’s situation this season.
