What happened: The contract includes a player option. The agreement resolves Mathurin's restricted free agency ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Why it matters: New Orleans had pursued Mathurin for more than a year and views him as a significant part of its young core. The short term limits the Pelicans' commitment while giving Mathurin control over his next contract decision.
By the numbers: The $16 million total produces an average annual value of $8 million.
What to watch: Attention shifts to Mathurin's role in New Orleans' rotation for the upcoming season.