DeMarcus Cousins is the big fish the New Orleans Pelicans want to catch, but they’re also looking to re-sign point guard Rajon Rondo.
According to Marc Stein of the New York Times, the addition of Elfrid Payton doesn’t affect New Orleans’ desire to keep Rondo.
The Pelicans remain hopeful of re-signing point guard Rajon Rondo, league sources say, even after coming to terms tonight with free-agent guard Elfrid Payton
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) July 2, 2018
The Pelicans have limited money available, but the mid-level exception could go to the veteran. And after “Playoff Rondo” made an appearance last season, he’d be worth it.
Rondo averaged 8.3 points and 8.2 assists during the regular season, then lifted those marks to 10.3 and 12.2, respectively, in the playoffs. He played an integral role in New Orleans’ first-round sweep of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Should he remain with the Pels, Rondo would be a starter in the backcourt alongside Jrue Holiday.