Tap here to view theScore's NBA Offseason Tracker, which includes the latest transactions and rumors.
There will be plenty of familiar faces in New Orleans next season.
After announcing that Anthony Davis had put pen to paper on a five-year maximum extension that could keep him with the Pelicans through 2021, the team worked swiftly to bring back three members of the supporting cast from his first playoff appearance.
The Pelicans officially re-signed centers Omer Asik and Alexis Ajinca, and small forward Dante Cunningham on Thursday.
Asik, acquired for a first-round pick last offseason to help put a natural center next to Davis and share the defensive load, is returning on a five-year deal worth a reported $60 million. While his offensive production is modest, he's a strong rebounding presence and a quality rim protector, and the Pelicans outscored opponents by 5.3 points per 100 possessions when Asik and Davis shared the floor.
Fellow 7-footer Ajinca is said to be sticking around on a four-year, $20-million contract. With Davis set to play plenty of minutes and see time at center, the frontcourt may be a little crowded, but Ajinca provides solid offensive depth at the five. He averaged 6.5 points and 4.6 rebounds last season, hammering the offensive glass and helping stretch the floor.
Signed as a free agent in December, Cunningham reportedly inked a three-year, $9-million deal, giving him his first long-term home after splitting his first six seasons between five teams. The combo forward averaged 5.2 points and 3.9 rebounds last season, providing solid defense and a modicum of shooting beyond the elbows, though his range doesn't extend beyond the arc.
The Pelicans are now over the salary cap with nine players under guaranteed contract, though they should be able to fill out the roster without pushing to the luxury tax.
