The Pelicans roster for 2018-19 looks much different today after a wild day of NBA free agency. In a matter of a few hours, Rajon Rondo and DeMarcus Cousins left the Pels and signed one-year contracts with the Lakers and Warriors respectively. But New Orleans has replaced them with forward Julius Randle, who played really well for the Lakers in the second half last season. And former Ragin Cajun Elfrid Payton has signed a one-year deal and he’ll look to replace Rondo. Pelicans beat writer Scott Kushner of the Advocate says Payton is a poor shooter, but can handle the ball and play solid defense…
cut 10 (12) “…either”
The 24-year-old Payton signed a one-year, 2.7 million dollar contract with New Orleans. The 23-year-old Randle signed a 2-year, 18 million dollar contract with a player option to opt out in year two.

A month from today, the LSU Tigers will report for August camp. Ohio State transfer quarterback Joe Burrow will finally get a chance to practice with his new team. But offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger says the coaching staff still has high hopes for the other three scholarship quarterbacks on the roster….
cut 18 (19) “…his legs”
On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Devin White and cornerback Greedy Williams have been named pre-season All-Americans by Sporting News. White led the SEC in tackles last season, while Williams intercepted six passes a year ago and held opposing quarterbacks to a 22.9 passer rating when targeted.

In World Cup Action today….England eliminated Columbia as they won on penalty kicks 4-3. The game ended in a 1-1 tie. England will play Sweden in the quarterfinals, who beat Switzerland 1-nil.