The 2025–26 season didn’t go the way the New Orleans Pelicans' front office planned, but it ultimately led to DeAndre Jordan joining the franchise. The 18-year pro was just awarded the NBA Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year award.
The Pelicans signed Jordan after two regular-season games, as the team's frontcourt was decimated by injuries. Initially, expectations were low—many felt DJ would be just a temporary fix, and it was unclear how long he would actually stay in New Orleans. However, Jordan was able to flip that script immediately, not with his play but with his presence.
With New Orleans having a ton of young, inexperienced talent, DJ brought a calming presence and veteran voice that was much needed. Seeing him earn the NBA’s Teammate of the Year award is further validation for the Pelicans and should be another reason for the front office to retain him next season.
DJ should remain a staple in the Pelicans’ future
While DeAndre Jordan's impact was most noticeable from the sidelines, at practice, and behind the scenes in the 12 games he appeared in this season, his presence was felt. He started in seven of his 12 games this season, which included a game where he recorded a 6-point, 15-rebound, and 4-block performance as New Orleans blew out the Philadelphia 76ers 126-111. Jordan often shared the frontcourt with Derik Queen, providing the rookie big man with a stable rim protector while also keeping him in check when the rookie would get heated.
Jordan would enter the 2026-27 season at 38 years old, making it unclear whether he'll return to the court for a 19th year or retire. If DJ decides against playing another season, the Pelicans should still look to bring him back, but in a different role within the organization. Whether in an advisory role or as an assistant coach, Jordan has given the organization ample reasons to renew his contract in one form or another.
Oftentimes, when teams bring in veterans, they are brought in to usher in a new group of young talent and help guide them along the early parts of their NBA journey. While DJ did that for Jeremiah Fears, Micah Peavy, Yves Missi, and mostly Derik Queen, he was also someone the team's more experienced players leaned on. Throughout the season, there were moments where we saw Jordan coaching up Zion Williamson, reminding him that he is the star of the show and the Pelicans' franchise player. He did the same with Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III, and Saddiq Bey.
It’s rare to see a 26-56 team with consistently high energy and cohesion on the sidelines. Although giving Jordan all the credit for the vibes always being so high is lazy, he is one of the biggest factors in that discussion.
Jordan earning NBA Teammate of the Year is incredibly well deserved and a true testament to the leader he was for this young Pelicans group this season. If he's open to a return either on the court or from the sidelines as a coach, Joe Dumars and Troy Weaver must make it happen.
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