In order for the Denver Nuggets to sign Richard Jefferson, they waived Jameer Nelson to create the necessary roster spot. After Nelson cleared waivers, there were reportedly four teams interested in signing him including the Brooklyn Nets, Charlotte Hornets, Houston Rockets and New Orleans Pelicans.
As numerous teams expressed interest, the one-time All-Star has signed with the Pelicans according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN:
With Chris Paul missing time with a knee injury, most assumed the Rockets would be the destination considering they are the only championship contenders out of the four teams. However, Nelson was still looking to play a significant role at this stage of his career according to Wojnarowski.
To begin the 2017-18 NBA season, the Pelicans have lost their first two games. As Rajon Rondo is recovering from a sports hernia, the Pelicans could use a veteran like Nelson to back up Jrue Holiday.
While all the attention is on Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, New Orleans has tried to add shooters during the offseason to create the necessary space on the floor for their two All-Star big men. Fortunately for the Pelicans, the 14-year guard has averaged 11.7 points on 36.9 percent shooting from the three-point line and 5.2 assists.