2019 NBA free agency: 5 most underrated signings

1. New Orleans Pelicans add J.J. Redick to the mix

The New Orleans Pelicans had an interesting 2018-19 campaign, to say the least. Their lone superstar, Anthony Davis, requested a trade. The team failed to make it to the playoffs following a season that saw them sweep the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round of the 2018 NBA Playoffs.

It would’ve been easy to feel sorry for the small-market franchise, but they have bounced back quite nicely. In dealing Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers, the Pelicans received Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram and Josh Hart in return. Additionally, they also received three first round picks, including this year’s No. 4 pick. Let’s also not forget they took Zion Williamson with the top overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft and traded for Derrick Favors.

Now, it appears that J.J. Redick plans to sign with New Orleans Pelicans on a two-year deal worth $26.5 million. Redick posted a career high in scoring with 18.1 points per contest — not too bad considering he just completed his 13th season in the NBA.

He shot 44 percent from the field overall and for the seventh straight season, he shot better than 39 percent from 3-point range. In essence, the guy can still fill it up from the outside. To put this deal into perspective, it should be noted that in 2017-18, Redick agreed to a one-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers at a $23 million price tag.

Now, the Pels are getting him for average salary of $13.25 million over the next two seasons. This is a huge move for a team looking to re-enter the conference playoff race next season.