Pelicans add Malik Dia on two‑way deal

New Orleans Pelicans have signed Malik Dia to a two‑way contract, completing their trio alongside Hunter Dickinson and Jaron Pierre Jr. The move brings the roster to 20 players, one below the summer limit. Dia, a 22‑year‑old forward standing 206 centimeters and weighing roughly 113 kilos, arrives after a collegiate journey through Vanderbilt, Belmont and Ole Miss. He started 31 of 35 games last season, averaging 14.5 points and 5.7 rebounds in 24.3 minutes, shooting 45.2% from the field and 27.5% from three. Known for his strength and interior scoring, Dia has been less consistent from long range, finishing his NCAA career at 32.7% from deep.

He previously impressed the Pelicans during the Las Vegas Summer League, posting 10 points and 5.8 rebounds per game. With the two‑way deal, Dia will split time between the NBA and G League as he works to carve out a role in New Orleans.