New Orleans Pelicans Sign Center Greg Stiemsma, Waive Lance Thomas

The New Orleans Pelicans have waived one player and added another. In need of a traditional center, the Pelicans inked Greg Stiemsma (pictured) to a one-year deal for the mid-level exception of $2,652,000.

The 6'11, 260 pound, 27-year old big man played 4 years of college ball at Wisconsin, went undrafted, and took his skills overseas. After playing in Turkey, South Korea, the D-League, back to Turkey, and back to the D-League, Stiemsma made the 2011-2012 Boston Celtics roster. He spent last season with the Minnesota Timberwolves, and will enter his 3rd season with the Pelicans.

Stiemsma won't bring much to the Pelicans offensively, but is a solid defender who will try to block anything at the rim, even if it means he's likely to get posterized. He's also an above-average rebounder, something the current New Orleans roster is lacking.

While the Pelicans say hello to Stiemsma, they also say goodbye to Lance Thomas (pictured). The 6'8 combo forward played in over 100 games the last two seasons for New Orleans, bringing his endless motor and defense to the floor. His 3.1 points and 2.4 rebounds in 12.6 minutes a game can easily be replaced, his attitude and work ethic will be missed.