Thunder Acquire Daniel Theis from Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans have traded center Daniel Theis, along with draft compensation, to the Oklahoma City Thunder in a move aimed at staying under the NBA's luxury tax threshold. Theis, who is on an expiring $2.1 million contract, is averaging 4.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists over 38 games this season. This trade benefits the Pelicans financially, as they maneuver under the luxury tax, while the Thunder gain additional draft assets and roster depth. The Thunder, leading the Western Conference with a record of 39-9, have faced injury issues with key players like Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein, making Theis a valuable insurance policy for their frontcourt. The exact details of what Oklahoma City will send back to New Orleans have not been fully disclosed. This move highlights strategic roster adjustments by both teams ahead of the NBA trade deadline.