Pelicans’ Struggles Intensify with Key Injuries as They Face Nets
The New Orleans Pelicans are in a precarious position as they prepare to confront the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, aiming to snap a daunting five-game losing streak. With a record of 5-17, the Nets may seem like an inviting opponent, but the Pelicans’ own struggles have made this matchup anything but straightforward. Under interim head coach James Borrego, the team has managed to secure just one victory in their last eleven outings, raising concerns about their direction as they plunge deeper into a season marked by setbacks.
Injury Report Raises Concerns
As the Pelicans gear up for their clash with the Nets, their latest injury report reveals a grim reality that will further challenge their efforts. Notably, key players Jordan Poole and Herb Jones are confirmed to be sidelined, along with Dejounte Murray and Zion Williamson. This situation has forced the Pelicans to rely heavily on their younger talent, a move that reflects a shift in priorities as they navigate through another challenging campaign.
Jordan Poole’s absence looms large, as he will miss his seventeenth consecutive game due to a persistent quad injury. When he was initially injured on November 5, the extent of the problem was not disclosed, leaving fans and team officials in the dark. Although he was cleared for basketball activities by November 24, updates on his progress have been scarce. As of now, Poole’s participation remains limited to non-contact practices, and he has been ruled out of games with little notice.
Herb Jones’ situation mirrors that of Poole. Following an announcement on November 24 that he would be sidelined for at least a week due to a calf strain, Jones has yet to see any progress in his recovery. With Saturday marking his eighth consecutive game missed, the Pelicans are feeling the weight of these injuries as they look to find a spark.
Potential Return of Yves Missi
Amid the injury woes, there is a glimmer of hope with Yves Missi, who is listed as questionable after missing two games due to an ankle sprain. If he is able to suit up, his size and defensive prowess could provide much-needed support. In his absence, Borrego has turned to Karlo Matkovic for backup center minutes, but the team has struggled to find stability without their key contributors.
The starting lineup for the Pelicans is likely to remain unchanged, featuring Jeremiah Fears, Bryce McGowens, Trey Murphy, Saddiq Bey, and Derik Queen. Off the bench, Jose Alvarado, Jordan Hawkins, Micah Peavy, and Matkovic are expected to shoulder significant minutes as the team seeks to harness their youthful energy in a bid to reverse their fortunes.
Nets Without Cam Thomas
On the other side of the court, the Nets will also be missing a significant player in their own right, as top scorer Cam Thomas is out with a hamstring injury. Nonetheless, Brooklyn appears to be in a healthier state overall, posing a considerable challenge for the Pelicans as they strive to end their losing streak.
As the Pelicans prepare for this crucial matchup, the absence of key players underscores the uphill battle they face. The spotlight now shines on their young talent to step up and deliver in a season that continues to test the resilience of this franchise.
