Overview
- Multiple outlets report the Pelicans agreed to a one-year deal with Christian Koloko that is widely described as a non-guaranteed training-camp (Exhibit 9–style) arrangement.
- Koloko will compete for the team’s final roster spot against frontcourt players including Derik Queen, Yves Missi, DeAndre Jordan and Karlo Matković.
- The 26-year-old was the No. 33 pick in 2022, missed the 2023–24 season with a blood clot before clearing the NBA fitness panel, and has since moved between two-way deals, 10-day contracts and the G League.
- Because Koloko has enough service time to be ineligible for another two-way deal, the likely Exhibit 9 structure would let the Pelicans waive him and keep him available for their G League affiliate with a camp bonus.
- The signing adds defensive frontcourt depth to a Pelicans roster that already has 14 guaranteed contracts, meaning Koloko must earn playing time to secure a regular-season spot and could affect the team’s bench rotation or G League assignments.