New Orleans Pelicans Rumors
Because of luxury-tax concerns, the feeling around the league is the Pelicans may pass on matching any offer over $20 million per season with rookie lottery-pick point guard Kira Lewis and combo guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker in the fold. The Post reported Ball has the Knicks on his radar. His father, LaVar, had hoped Ball’s youngest brother, LaMelo, would be drafted by the Knicks last November — wanting him to play amid the bright lights of New York City.

Andrew Lopez: Isaiah Thomas’ 10-day contract with the Pelicans has expired and the team will not look to bring him back right away, source tells ESPN. Pels could bring him back down the road, though. (1/3)
Andrew Lopez: They have 2 weeks before needing to sign another player – on either a 10-day or rest of the year. Because of luxury tax reasons, Pelicans could wait the full 2 weeks before adding someone. (2/3)
Andrew Lopez: The Pels loved Thomas’ veteran presence and the way he communicated with younger guys while he was with the team. But new injuries to Josh Hart (thumb) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker (high ankle sprain) will factor into who gets brought in for next deal. (3/3)

Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle recently said that “watching him is like a breathtaking experience” — as if Shaquille O’Neal had point-guard skills. “It’s probably a good word to describe him — unique,” said Tom Thibodeau said in advance of the Pelicans matchup, “It’s unusual because it’s power and speed. And usually when you have the power, you don’t have the speed or if you have the speed, you don’t have the power and he has both. Very skilled, puts a lot of pressure on you, dynamic play-maker.”

Keith Smith: Isaiah Thomas’ 10 Day contract with the New Orleans Pelicans expired today. The Pelicans can sign Thomas to to a second 10 Day.