Injuries Plague Pelicans But Poole’s Return on the Horizon
Injuries have been a defining issue for the New Orleans Pelicans this season, casting a shadow over their early campaign. The team’s most valuable players have endured extended absences, creating a landscape of uncertainty. Among them, guard Jordan Poole stands out. He marked his 18th consecutive game on the sidelines during Monday’s defeat to the San Antonio Spurs.
Positive Signs from Interim Coach Borrego
However, a glimmer of hope emerged following Tuesday’s practice, as interim coach James Borrego offered an optimistic update on Poole’s recovery. The young guard has been nursing a mild strain of the left vastus lateralis (a muscle in the quadriceps) since early November, forcing him to step back from the court.
An update from the team in mid-November indicated that Poole was making encouraging progress, with the promise of further assessments to follow. Borrego, after Tuesday’s session, revealed that Poole was able to participate in drills on a limited basis. His involvement in practice could ramp up, contingent upon how his body responds, with a full return to practice anticipated as soon as Wednesday.
Looking Ahead to Poole’s Full Participation
“Jordan participated in some parts of practice today,” Borrego noted. He expressed confidence in Poole’s potential to engage fully in the next day’s session, highlighting a cautious but positive approach to the guard’s rehabilitation.
As the Pelicans navigate their injury woes, Poole’s return could provide a much-needed lift to the roster. With the team hopeful for his comeback, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his progression unfolds in the coming days.
