Report: Pelicans to sign Tony Allen to one-year deal

The New Orleans Pelicans will reportedly fill a void on the wing for the upcoming season with the addition of veteran Tony Allen.

Shams Charania of The Vertical reported Monday the Pelicans and Allen were finalizing a one-year contract.

The six-time NBA All-Defensive team choice comes off a solid year with Memphis, where Allen spent the past seven seasons. He averaged 9.1 point and a career-best 5.5 rebounds per contest.

The 35-year old Allen is still considered one of the league’s best defenders. With the loss of Solomon hill for most of the upcoming season due to injury and the trade of Quincy Pondexter, the Pelicans lack depth at the small forward spot. Allen can help provide minutes as well as a proven veteran presence.