After trade deadline passes, Pelicans announce intentions to play Anthony Davis

After keeping Anthony Davis at the NBA’s trade deadline, the Pelicans have decided to play their star forward again.

New Orleans general manager Dell Demps announced in a press release Thursday evening that Davis will play the remaining 27 games of the 2018-19 season, despite Davis’ trade request made through his agent Rich Paul on January 28:

“Anthony Davis will play the remainder of the 2018-19 season for the New Orleans Pelicans. A number of factors contributed to this decision. Ultimately, Anthony made it clear to us that he wants to play and he gives our team the best opportunity to win games. Moreover, the Pelicans want to preserve the integrity of the game and align our organization with NBA policies. We believe Anthony playing upholds the values that are in the best interest of the NBA and its fans. We look forward to seeing Anthony in a Pelicans uniform again soon.”

Despite being cleared to return to action after missing six games with a left index finger sprain, Davis was held out of the past two games when the Pelicans lost Monday in Indiana and won Wednesday in Chicago.

On deadline day, New Orleans did trade forward Nikola Mirotic for two players and four second round picks.