The New Orleans Pelicans have made a notable post-draft move by signing former Kansas Jayhawks center Hunter Dickinson to a contract following the conclusion of the 2025 NBA Draft. Dickinson, one of the most accomplished big men in recent college basketball memory, went undrafted despite a productive collegiate career. His signing offers the Pelicans a low-risk, high-upside addition to their frontcourt as they look to solidify depth ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season.
Dickinson, a 7-foot-2 center, spent three seasons at Michigan before transferring to Kansas for his final collegiate year. While with the Jayhawks, he continued to showcase his well-rounded offensive skillset and veteran leadership, averaging 16.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game during the 2024-25 season. Known for his soft touch around the rim, excellent footwork, and improved perimeter shooting, Dickinson was expected by many to hear his name called late in the second round of the draft. Instead, he now joins the Pelicans as an undrafted free agent with a chance to prove himself.
According to team sources, the Pelicans are signing Dickinson to an Exhibit 10 deal, which could potentially convert into a two-way contract if he impresses during summer league and training camp. The deal allows New Orleans to evaluate Dickinson’s fit within their system while giving the big man a pathway to earning a roster spot or valuable time with their G League affiliate.
For the Pelicans, adding Dickinson makes strategic sense. The team has been looking to bolster its frontcourt rotation behind starting center Jonas Valančiūnas, who is entering the final stages of his prime. With questions surrounding the long-term health and availability of key players like Zion Williamson and Larry Nance Jr., New Orleans is aiming to develop depth and find reliable role players who can contribute in various situations.
Dickinson offers a unique combination of size, scoring ability, and basketball IQ. While his lack of elite athleticism and lateral quickness may have contributed to his slide out of the draft, his offensive polish and experience give him a realistic chance to carve out a niche as a backup center. In particular, his pick-and-pop potential and court vision could mesh well with the Pelicans’ perimeter-heavy offense.
New Orleans has had success developing undrafted talent in recent years, and the front office is optimistic that Dickinson’s maturity and college resume will translate into steady growth at the pro level. He will get his first major opportunity to showcase his skills in the NBA Summer League, where he’ll compete against other rookies, second-year players, and fellow undrafted prospects.
The signing of Dickinson also reinforces a trend seen across the NBA in recent years — where experienced college players, despite not being selected in the draft, find meaningful roles in the league through free agency and development systems. With the G League and two-way contracts offering more flexibility, teams are increasingly willing to invest in players like Dickinson who bring a mix of readiness and upside.
For Hunter Dickinson, the journey to the NBA continues with a promising opportunity in New Orleans. While his path may not have followed the traditional draft-night storyline, the destination remains within reach. If he can capitalize on this chance and adjust to the speed and physicality of the NBA, the Pelicans may have found themselves a valuable piece — and Dickinson may soon prove that being undrafted was merely a detour on the road to success.
