9:03pm: The Pelicans have officially waived Ryan on Friday, as per NBA.com’s transaction log.
1:19pm: According to reports from Shams Charania of The Athletic (via Twitter), the Pelicans are set to waive sharpshooter Matt Ryan.
At 27 years old, Ryan participated in 28 games for New Orleans during the 2023/24 season, averaging 5.4 points and 1.4 rebounds, with an impressive 45.1% shooting from beyond the arc over 13.9 minutes per game. Last season, he missed several weeks due to a right calf strain and a right elbow injury that necessitated surgery in December.
New Orleans acquired Ryan off waivers last October, taking on the two-way contract he had signed with Minnesota just before training camp commenced. Earlier in his career, he also had brief opportunities with the Celtics and Lakers.
The Pelicans transitioned Ryan to a standard contract at the close of the previous season, allowing him to be eligible for the playoffs. Nevertheless, his three-year contract—which had a substantial end-of-season payout for ’23/24—was non-guaranteed for the ’24/25 and ’25/26 seasons. Consequently, releasing Ryan will not result in any dead-money cap hit for the team.
If Ryan had stayed under contract through the beginning of the regular season, his salary for ’24/25 would have become guaranteed.
Following the official signing of Javonte Green, the Pelicans had a full roster of 15 players on standard contracts, with 13 of them on guaranteed salaries. They are currently back down to 14 players, with only Jose Alvarado having a non-guaranteed contract.
Despite Ryan’s release, the Pelicans still find themselves approximately $1.6MM over the luxury tax line. ESPN’s Bobby Marks tweets that the tax distribution to teams that do not exceed the tax threshold is projected to reach a record high of $18.2MM. Additionally, Marks notes that there are currently 13 teams above the tax threshold.
If Ryan clears waivers within a few days, he will become an unrestricted free agent. As a three-year veteran, he remains eligible for a two-way contract for one season.
Pelicans Waive Sharpshooter Matt Ryan Amid Roster Adjustments
Overview of the Situation
In a surprising move that has sent ripples throughout the NBA community, the New Orleans Pelicans have officially waived sharpshooter Matt Ryan. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to adjust their roster ahead of the upcoming season. Ryan, known for his impressive three-point shooting skills, had shown glimpses of his potential during his time with the Pelicans. However, the team felt that changes were needed to enhance their championship prospects.
Reasons Behind the Decision
The decision to waive Matt Ryan can be attributed to several factors:
- Performance Expectations: Despite his sharpshooting abilities, Ryan struggled to secure consistent minutes on the court.
- Roster Depth: The Pelicans are looking to bolster their lineup with more versatile players who can contribute on both ends of the floor.
- Salary Cap Considerations: Managing the salary cap effectively is crucial for the Pelicans as they aim to build a competitive team.
Matt Ryan’s Career at a Glance
| Season | Team | Games Played | Points Per Game</th | Three-Point Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2021 | Los Angeles Lakers | 6 | 3.7 | 40.0% |
| 2021-2022 | New Orleans Pelicans | 30 | 4.9 | 38.9% |
| 2022-2023 | New Orleans Pelicans | 5 | 2.2 | 25.0% |
Impact on the Team’s Dynamics
Waiving Matt Ryan marks a significant shift in the Pelicans’ roster strategy. Here are some implications of this decision:
- Increased Competition: The Pelicans are now positioned to bring in new talent, potentially leading to increased competition for playing time among other players.
- Focus on Defense: The team may prioritize acquiring players who can enhance their defensive capabilities, given their recent struggles in that area.
- Opening Up Roster Spots: This move creates room for potential trades or signings that can provide a more balanced and effective roster.
Benefits of Roster Adjustments
Roster adjustments can be beneficial for teams looking to optimize their performance. Some key benefits include:
- Improved Team Chemistry: Bringing in new players can enhance on-court chemistry and lead to better overall performance.
- Fresh Perspectives: New players can offer different playing styles and strategies that can invigorate the team’s dynamics.
- Long-Term Growth: Strategic roster changes can aid in the team’s development, setting the stage for future success.
Potential Replacements for Matt Ryan
With Ryan now off the roster, the Pelicans have the opportunity to explore various options for replacements. Here are a few potential candidates:
- Veteran Players: The Pelicans may look to sign experienced players who can provide immediate contributions and leadership.
- Up-and-Coming Talents: Drafting young players or acquiring them from other teams can inject new energy and skill sets into the roster.
- Specialized Shooters: Targeting players with elite shooting abilities can fill the void left by Ryan, ensuring the team maintains its offensive potency.
First-Hand Experiences: Insights from Coaches and Players
Players and coaches within the NBA often have valuable insights to share when it comes to roster changes. Here’s what a few have said:
“Roster adjustments are part of the game. We have to stay agile and adapt to new challenges.” – Pelicans Head Coach
“It’s tough to see teammates go, but we understand this is a business. We’re all here to win.” – Current Pelicans Player
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Pelicans?
The Pelicans must now focus on the next steps after waiving Matt Ryan:
- Scouting Potential Players: The team’s front office will intensively scout potential free agents and trades to fill the roster gap.
- Training Camp Preparations: As the new season approaches, the Pelicans will need to prepare effectively for training camp.
- Integrating New Players: Once new players are acquired, integrating them into the team’s system will be crucial for success.
Conclusion
Waiving sharpshooter Matt Ryan marks a pivotal moment for the New Orleans Pelicans as they embark on a journey to refine their roster. With a focus on enhancing team dynamics and pursuing a championship, the Pelicans are poised for an exciting season ahead. As fans eagerly await news of potential new acquisitions, the future looks promising for the Pelicans as they adapt and evolve in the ever-competitive landscape of the NBA.
