The New Orleans Pelicans have swiftly moved to bolster their roster depth, officially agreeing to an Exhibit-9 deal with former Utah Jazz guard Jaden Springer. This significant signing, a piece of burgeoning NBA Free Agency news, positions the athletic guard to compete intensely for a coveted roster spot as the team gears up for the upcoming season, sparking considerable interest in the basketball news circuit.
Springer, an imposing 6-foot-4, 204-pound guard, brings a blend of physical prowess and defensive potential to the Pelicans’ training camp. A product of the 2021 NBA Draft, he was initially selected as the 28th overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers, a testament to his perceived talent and upside coming out of college.
Most recently, Springer’s journey saw him with the Utah Jazz during the 2024-25 season. His tenure with the Jazz commenced after he was waived by the Boston Celtics midway through the year. He initially secured a two-way contract, which was later converted into a standard deal for the remainder of that season, highlighting his immediate contribution to the Utah Jazz.
However, his association with the Jazz proved to be short-lived, as he was subsequently waived from his non-guaranteed contract before he could embark on his second campaign in Utah. This recent development made him an immediate target for teams looking for valuable, young talent on the open market, leading to his quick acquisition by the New Orleans Pelicans.
Before his stint with the Utah Jazz, Jaden Springer was a contributing member of the Boston Celtics’ 2024 championship-winning team. Earning an NBA championship ring just one year prior to joining the Jazz underscores his experience within a winning culture and his ability to contribute, even in a limited role, at the highest level of professional basketball.
The Exhibit-9 deal represents a crucial opportunity for the former Tennessee guard. This type of non-guaranteed training camp contract allows teams to bring in players for evaluation without committing to their salary beyond a certain point. For Springer, it means a direct path to showcase his skills and compete for one of the final spots on the New Orleans Pelicans’ active roster.
As Jaden Springer enters his fifth professional year, this move to the New Orleans Pelicans marks the potential for him to join his fourth NBA team in his young career. His journey through the league has been characterized by proving his worth and seizing opportunities, and this Exhibit 9 Contract is no different.
Ultimately, the battle for a roster spot will be fierce, but Springer’s defensive capabilities and past experiences with championship contenders make him an intriguing prospect for the Pelicans. His integration into the team will be closely watched as they finalize their lineup for the demanding season ahead, with his performance during training camp being paramount.
