In a whirlwind of events since the 2022 NBA Draft, the New Orleans Pelicans have made yet another move to bolster their center depth by signing Karlo Matkovic to a three-year deal worth $4.9 million, with a team option in the third year. This news comes after Matkovic, who was selected with the 52nd overall pick in the draft, spent the past two years playing overseas for Cedevita Olimpija in Slovenia. Despite leaving the team mid-season in 2023-24, Matkovic managed to secure a spot in the G League with the Birmingham Squadron.
During his time in the G League, Matkovic showcased his skills by averaging 17.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 31.3 minutes per game across 10 regular season appearances. His impressive shooting percentages of 62.1% from the field, 33.3% from three-point range, and 75.0% from the free-throw line did not go unnoticed.
With the Pelicans gearing up for the upcoming season, their center rotation has undergone a complete overhaul. Notable departures include starting center Jonas Valanciunas, who signed with the Washington Wizards, and backup center Larry Nance Jr., who was traded to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Dejounte Murray. Adding to the mix, third-string center Cody Zeller was also part of the trade deal.
The need to reinforce their frontcourt became a top priority for the Pelicans, leading them to select Yves Missi, a six-foot-eleven center, in the 2024 NBA Draft with the 21st overall pick. Missi, a promising talent out of Baylor, averaged 10.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks as a freshman in the 2023-24 season. At just 20 years old, he is anticipated to have ample opportunity to make his mark in the NBA from the outset.
As the Pelicans revamp their center position with the addition of Matkovic and Missi, the question remains – will these moves be enough to solidify their frontcourt and propel them to success in the upcoming season? Only time will tell as the new-look Pelicans prepare to take the court for the 2024-25 campaign.
