Thunder-Pelicans Trade Grades: Oklahoma City Nabs Daniel Theis

The Oklahoma City Thunder acquired Daniel Theis and a 2031 second-round pick (because, of course, they did) from the New Orleans Pelicans to kick off their trade deadline activity, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The 32-year-old big man hasn’t had as strong a season as in years past, but he’s proven himself a viable rotation piece on good teams throughout his career. 

Theis is averaging 4.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 38 games this year.

The New Orleans Pelicans are trading center Daniel Theis and draft compensation to the Oklahoma City Thunder, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/Ey3XKVHv48

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 5, 2025

The Pelicans are sending a 2031 second-round pick to Oklahoma City as part of the Daniel Theis-to-OKC trade, league sources tell @TheSteinLine.

More from @JakeLFischer and me on everything happening as we speak approaching the NBA Trade Deadline that’s 24 hours-ish away now:… https://t.co/YK1CoscBnb

— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 5, 2025

How Does Theis Fit In Oklahoma City?

For as dominant as they are, the Thunder have needed extra frontcourt depth as a result of injuries to Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. Theis isn’t a world-beater, but he should provide sturdier minutes than Jaylin Williams and Branden Carlson. Even when Hartenstein and Holmgren are fully healthy, Oklahoma City will benefit from more center depth against taller teams like the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks.

In a more competitive context, Theis’ screening, finishing and interior defense should all improve the Thunder’s depth. They rank 21st in offensive rebounding rate and 26th in defensive rebounding, two numbers he should help improve. His proficiency in the short midrange area, shooting 45.5 percent on those shots this season, will help him slot into Hartenstein’s offensive spots when needed.

Grading The Deal

New Orleans Pelicans: C-

By little fault of their own, the 12-38 Pelicans find themselves in the NBA’s basement after a litany of unfortunate injuries. Following Dejounte Murray’s season-ending Achilles tear, selling at the deadline makes sense. Giving up a second-round pick far in the future shouldn’t mean much, but receiving nothing of value for Theis isn’t great by any means. The Pelicans should and will look toward the future with their deadline moves. 

Oklahoma City Thunder: B+

We’ll see if the 39-9 Thunder, sporting the NBA’s best net rating (plus-13.8) and win percentage (.812), will continue adding depth pieces in pursuit of a title this season. Landing Theis and a future pick for literally nothing makes for a good start regardless.