Former Celtics big man Daniel Theis is on the move as he was again traded, this time from the Pelicans to the Thunder, per ESPN’s Shams Charania. In a cost-cutting move, the Pelicans are sending Theis and draft compensation to the Thunder.
It’s no surprise to see the Pelicans offloading salary. They’re now under the luxury tax line by trading Theis' $2.1 million expiring contract. Theis averaged 4.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 38 games for the Pelicans this year.
The Pelicans season is going nowhere as they’re 12-38 on the season, good for 14th place in the West. After Dejounte Murray recently suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, the Pelicans' future is also up in the air.
For now, Theis gets to join the Thunder as they’re right in the thick of a title hunt. Oklahoma City won’t necessarily lean on Theis for consistent minutes, but he’s at least a nice depth add to the roster. Plus, it’s no surprise to see Sam Presti continue to get even more draft compensation.
