The New Orleans Pelicans have traded center Daniel Theis and draft compensation to the Oklahoma City Thunder, according to NBA insider Shams Charania. The move helps New Orleans get below the luxury tax threshold while giving Oklahoma City additional frontcourt depth.
Bobby Marks of ESPN noted that the Pelicans were $1.4 million over the tax line before the deal. With Theis’ expiring $2.1 million contract off the books, the team is now under the tax.
Theis, 32, has played a limited role this season, averaging 4.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 16.3 minutes per game. He has provided solid minutes off the bench but was not a key part of New Orleans’ rotation.
The Thunder, currently near atop of the Western Conference, add an experienced big man for depth. Oklahoma City has relied on Chet Holmgren as its primary center, with Jaylin Williams and Mike Muscala filling backup roles.
