With the signing of forward Herb Jones to a three-year, $68 million contract deal, the New Orleans Pelicans have made a significant step in assembling a roster capable of winning a title. Jones will remain under team control until 2029, with a player option granted for the 2029–30 season.

From Second-Round Pick to Defensive Pillar

Herb Jones is now much more than just an unexpected draft discovery:

He was originally taken from Alabama with the 35th overall choice in 2021, and his defensive prowess has garnered him great praise. In 2023–2024, he was named to the All-Defensive First Team.

Jones has averaged 10.1 points per game, 3.8 rebounds per game, 2.5 assists per game, and 1.6 rebounds per game across four seasons (240 games, 231 starts), shooting an impressive 36.6% from three-point range.

Jones displayed his exceptional two-way presence during his best 2023–24 season, recording a career-high 62 blocks and 105 steals.

Details of the Extension: Flexibility and Security

After his current rookie-scale contract ends, the three-year, $68 million contract takes effect, extending his total time with New Orleans to five years and $97 million, which includes a player option for 2029–2030.

Securing Jones on a maximum extension demonstrates New Orleans’ strategic defense focus and long-term trust.

Why the Pelicans Made This Move

1. Locking Down Elite Defense
Jones ranks among the top 10 in one-on-one defense and is one of only eight NBA players since 2021 to have at least 350 steals and 150 blocks.

2. Value Efficiency
His new pay offers a lockdown defender on more affordable terms than offensive studs, which is a great cost-benefit analysis.

3. Franchise Continuity
This offseason, Jones was given priority by general manager David Griffin and head of basketball operations Joe Dumars, putting an end to trade rumors with rival teams.

Health Considerations

Jones had shoulder surgery in February of last season, which limited his playing time to 20 games.  Nevertheless, his post-return averages of 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.9 steals per game demonstrated his continued influence.  Durability, however, must continue to be a team priority.

Fit Within the Pelicans’ Core

Jones gives the Pelicans’ roster a defensive spine with players like Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson, and defensive partner Larry Nance Jr.  His adaptability allows for perimeter containment, switchable defense, and transition initiation, all of which flawlessly match New Orleans’ style of play.

Fans and analysts alike praise the signing:

RealGM forum members echo Jones’ value by describing the decision as both necessary and wise.

According to local FOX and ESPN coverage, Jones’ extension demonstrates the team’s dedication to a defensive identity.

What Comes Next

Health recovery: It will be important to keep an eye on Jones’s durability following surgery.

Leadership development: As a reliable starter, he might develop into a mentor and voice in the locker room.

Cap alignment: The Pelicans need to balance contracts to maintain flexibility because more extensions are probably in the works.

Final Take

The Pelicans’ decision to invest in Herb Jones is a reflection of their corporate identity and sound basketball reasoning.  As they aim for postseason success, this $68 million contract protects a key building piece, compensates an outstanding defender, and shows a genuine commitment to defense.

New Orleans may have one of the most underappreciated defensive trios in the NBA, ready to play in the competitive Western Conference, if Jones is healthy.  This contract is a strategic statement that defense is important in the Crescent City and goes beyond just economic considerations.