The New Orleans Pelicans have officially announced the signing of free agent guard Jaden Springer, a strategic move aimed at bolstering their roster with a defensive-minded asset. This acquisition brings a former first-round draft pick to the Bayou, signaling the Pelicans’ continued efforts to fine-tune their lineup as they approach the upcoming season.
Springer, originally selected as the No. 28 pick in the 2021 NBA draft, began his professional journey with the Philadelphia 76ers. Across two-and-a-half seasons with the franchise, his role was notably limited, often finding himself on the periphery of the main rotation despite his promising draft stock. His tenure in Philadelphia concluded when he was traded to the Boston Celtics at the 2024 trade deadline.
Following his brief stint with the Celtics, which spanned roughly a full calendar year, Springer was once again on the move, rerouted to the Houston Rockets in February 2025 as part of a salary-dump transaction. His time in Houston was short-lived, as he was subsequently waived by the Rockets, placing him back on the open market as a free agent.
His basketball odyssey continued with a 10-day contract signed with the Utah Jazz in February, which led to a more permanent two-year agreement in March after a successful audition. However, even this agreement proved fleeting, as the Jazz ultimately waived the NBA player before his minimum salary for the 2025/26 season could become partially guaranteed, highlighting the volatile nature of NBA free agency.
Known predominantly for his tenacious perimeter defense rather than his offensive contributions, Jaden Springer brings a specific skill set to the New Orleans Pelicans. His career averages stand at 2.9 points and 1.4 rebounds across 8.8 minutes per contest over 110 regular season appearances, underscoring his role as a defensive specialist.
While his recent NBA appearances have been sparse, with only two games in the NBAGL since the start of the 2023/24 season, Springer played a significant role in the G League during his initial two years with the 76ers. This experience provided him with crucial development time, honing the skills that make him an intriguing pickup for the Pelicans’ NBA roster.
For the New Orleans Pelicans, the signing of Jaden Springer presents a clear opportunity. With 14 players already on standard guaranteed contracts and ample breathing room below the luxury tax line, the team has the flexibility to carry a 15th man into the regular season. This scenario potentially paves a path for Springer to secure a spot on the Pelicans basketball team this fall, especially given that his four years of NBA experience make him ineligible for a two-way deal.
