With Theis gone, the Thunder now have an open roster spot. They could use it to convert Ajay Mitchell to a standard deal. The two-way rookie has played well despite toe surgery likely knocking him out for the rest of the regular season. No need to risk exposing him to restricted free agency.

Coming into a defensively stacked roster, Daniel Theis could have the chops to uplift Oklahoma City's defense even further in the second unit.

Tonight at 8 p.m., the Pelicans continue their road trip against the Denver Nuggets. When the trade was announced, the Pelicans wrapped up shootaround and huddled up to say their goodbyes to Theis, according to The Athletic Pelicans beat reporter Will Guillory.