Week three of NBA Free Agency kicked off with a big signing as one of the most notable free agents, point guard Rajon Rondo, has signed with the New Orleans Pelicans. The Boston Celtics also finished putting what is likely the final touches on their roster, while a Philadelphia 76ers player is headed back to Europe after only one season with the team.
Rondo is signing with the Pelicans
Rajon Rondo is signing a one-year deal to join the New Orleans Pelicans, following their meeting on Thursday. The Vertical was the first to report the news of Rondo's agreement with the team.
Adding Rondo gives the Pelicans a true backup point guard behind starter Jrue Holiday and a player who has chemistry with starter DeMarcus Cousins. When he played with Cousins during the 2015-16 season, Rondo recorded 237 assists with him. That is the most assists that Rondo has recorded with one player in a single season.
Last season, Rondo averaged 7.8 points, 6.7 assists, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.4 steals. All of those but the rebounds were below his career averages. However, Rondo was praised last season by Bulls executives, coaches, and players for his leadership and professional approach. Prior to his lone season with the Bulls, Rondo averaged 11.9 points, 11.7 assists, 6 rebounds and 2 steals during his one season with the Sacramento Kings.
Celtics put likely final touches on roster
The Boston Celtics have signed 2017 second-round pick Semi Ojeleye and 2016 first-round pick Guerschon Yabusele to four-year deals. In a corresponding move, the team has waived point guard Demetrius Jackson to have their roster stand at 15 players. Jackson was taken with the 45th pick in 2016 by the team.
Last season he only played in five NBA games, spending most of the season on the team's G-League Maine Red Claws.
Sergio Rodriguez heads back to Europe
Point guard Sergio Rodriguez is heading back to Europe after spending last season in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers. Rodriguez has agreed to a three-year contract with CSKA Moscow to play in the EuroLeague.
He was originally selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 27th pick in 2006, and played for the Portland Trail Blazers, Kings and New York Knicks from 2006 to 2010. Last season for the 76ers, Rodriguez played in 68 games and started 30 of them. He averaged 7.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 0.7 steals, while shooting 39.2% from the field and 36.5% on three-pointers.
