New Orleans Pelicans, Asik shake on $45M deal

Unrestricted free-agent center Omer Asik and the New Orleans Pelicans are finalizing a five-year deal that could be worth up to $60 million. Without incentives, the base contract is a four-year, $45 million pact.

Asik can kick in a fifth year and additional $15 million through performance and playing time escalators.

The former Chicago Bulls and Houston Rockets big man averaged 7.3 points, 9.8 rebounds and 26 minutes in 76 games for New Orleans last season.

Asik, 28, gives the Pelicans a rebounding and defensive presence alongside Anthony Davis, the franchise centerpiece who agreed to a $145 million extension on July 1.

The Pelicans also agreed to re-sign backup center Alexis Ajinca, who will receive a four-year deal worth $20.2 million.