Every team was constantly strengthening its roster, and Tang Tian was no exception.
He was now the team's vice president of operations and had begun building the roster for the new season.
The Pelicans currently had nine contracts on the books: eight guaranteed and one non-guaranteed.
After winning four consecutive championships last season, Parker, Carter, and Anthony announced their retirements one after another.
Carter had even begun his broadcasting career at this year's Summer League.
For them, winning another championship in the twilight of their careers had left them with no motivation to keep competing.
Jeff Green's contract had expired, and considering his playing opportunities with the Pelicans last season, there was a high probability he would not stay with the team.
Harrell's Rookie Contract had expired, making him a Restricted Free Agent, and he had already received a three-year, $42 million offer from the Clippers.
After signing Durant, the Pelicans' salary cap space was extremely tight, so there was a high probability they would not match it.
Adding the retired Tang Tian, six players from last season's fifteen-man roster were no longer with the team.
Among the eight remaining players, Davis, Durant, and Gasol formed the foundation, while Brogdon, Siakam, Alexander, and Kuzma were Core Rotation Players.
The remaining Guaranteed Contract belonged to Mitchell Robinson, who was only in the second year of his Rookie Contract.
The Non-Guaranteed Contract belonged to Ding Yanyuhang.
Having brought in Durant, the Pelicans now had two superstar cores in Durant and Davis.
Although many powerhouses would be battling it out next season, their strength still ranked among the league's best.
For Tang Tian, his challenge was not entirely about next season, but even more about the future.
Brogdon and Siakam's contracts would both expire after next season, and their extension starting salaries would