[REVISION HISTORY]

Bennedict Mathurin signs with New Orleans Pelicans

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-27 02:30 UTC → 2026-09-10 23:56 UTC · added ~~removed~~

In late July 2026, the Los Angeles Clippers placed a qualifying offer on restricted‑free‑agent wing Bennedict Mathurin, signalling their intent to retain him but allowing other teams to negotiate. The Chicago Bulls quickly emerged as a suitor, and the New Orleans Pelicans also re‑engaged, exploring a sign‑and‑trade route despite cap constraints. A few days later the Bulls were specifically linked to a potential acquisition. With their $54 million cap space exhausted and only a modest exception remaining, Chicago’s front office emphasized short‑term flexibility. Any deal would likely require a sign‑and‑trade that includes a three‑year contract with a guaranteed first year and draft‑pick compensation, fitting within the limited financial window while preserving future assets. By early August, Bulls officials indicated that the terms needed for a sign‑and‑trade or offer sheet were not favorable, and the team’s enthusiasm cooled. Executives highlighted the need to maintain roster flexibility and suggested the Bulls may keep the roster spot open for a more adaptable option, especially as the free‑agency market narrows. The hiring of new head coach Tiago Splitter was cited as part of a broader strategic shift rather than a focus on acquiring Mathurin. In late August, the situation concluded with Mathurin signing a two-year, $16 million contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, which includes a player option for the second year. To facilitate the signing as an unrestricted free agent, the Clippers agreed to withdraw their $8.8 million qualifying offer. The Pelicans, who had pursued Mathurin for over a year, intend for him to serve as a scoring addition to their young core. By early September, it was revealed that Mathurin chose this shorter-term agreement to allow him to reach unrestricted free agency as early as next offseason, despite reportedly receiving longer-term offers with higher total value.

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