The New Orleans Pelicans are bolstering their frontcourt by signing free-agent center Mo Bamba to a 10-day contract, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Bamba’s agents, Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports and Greer Love, confirmed the deal.
A Fresh Start in New Orleans
Bamba, 26, began the season with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he played 28 games, including two starts. While his role was limited, he showed efficiency, shooting a career-high 62% on two-point attempts. However, he was later traded to the Utah Jazz along with P.J. Tucker before being waived.
Rather than staying on the sidelines, Bamba joined the Pelicans’ G League affiliate and made an immediate impact. In three games, he averaged 20 points, 13.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game—proving he still has plenty to offer at the NBA level.
A Look at Bamba’s NBA Career
Selected sixth overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic, Bamba entered the league as a highly touted prospect known for his elite shot-blocking and floor-spacing ability. Over seven seasons, he has played for the Magic, Lakers, 76ers, and Clippers, developing into a solid rim protector with a career average of 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 36% from three.
His best season came in 2021-22 when he started 69 games for Orlando, averaging 10.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks while hitting 38% of his three-pointers. Injuries and fluctuating roles have since limited his production, but his skill set remains valuable.
What Bamba Brings to the Pelicans
New Orleans has battled frontcourt depth issues throughout the season, and Bamba’s arrival gives them a versatile big man who can protect the rim, rebound, and stretch the floor. With rookies Yves Missi and Karlo Matkovic struggling defensively, Bamba will have a chance to carve out a role off the bench during his 10-day stint.
If he impresses, there’s potential for the Pelicans to extend his contract for the rest of the season. Given his recent dominant G League performances and ability to impact both ends of the floor, this signing could be a low-risk, high-reward move for New Orleans.
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