Jordan Returns as Mentor, Not Starter | NBA News

DeAndre Jordan, 37 and playing in just 12 games last season, is returning to the New Orleans Pelicans for another year—not as a starter, but as the ultimate locker room glue guy. Despite his age and limited minutes, Jordan’s leadership earned him the Twyman-Stokes Teammate of the Year award, and young stars like Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears see him as a vital mentor. With the Pelicans’ young roster needing guidance and a championship-caliber veteran presence, Jordan’s role is about coaching, culture, and calm. While the team still needs to fix shooting and size, they’re saving cap space by declining Kevon Looney’s option and eyeing trades for Dejounte Murray or Jordan Poole. Jordan’s at peace with his diminished defensive role—he’s here to teach, lead, and lift his teammates. Even if he’s on the bench, his impact is still huge. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8783d5112295c217