Pelicans Prepare for Suns Showdown with Key Injuries
The New Orleans Pelicans are set to host the Phoenix Suns for a pair of critical matchups this weekend, with games scheduled for both Friday and Saturday. Riding a wave of confidence, the Pelicans have won five of their last six games, positioning themselves favorably as they embark on a three-game home stretch. This could be an opportunity to further ascend the crowded landscape of the Western Conference. However, the Pelicans will have to navigate these contests without some key players.
Injury Updates: Herb Jones and Jordan Poole
The latest injury report reveals that Herb Jones will be sidelined for the second consecutive game due to an ankle injury sustained during Monday’s bout against the Mavericks. His absence is a blow to the Pelicans’ defensive scheme and overall depth, as Jones has been a critical component of their success.
Adding to the uncertainty, Jordan Poole is listed as questionable for Friday’s game. He too missed Tuesday’s clash in Cleveland due to left ankle soreness. Poole’s return comes after a lengthy layoff earlier in the season due to a quad strain, and his recent contributions played a pivotal role in the Pelicans’ recent winning streak. While the severity of his current ailment remains unclear, the fact that he is deemed questionable instead of ruled out offers a glimmer of hope for Pelicans fans.
In addition to Jones and potentially Poole, the Pelicans will continue to be without Dejounte Murray, who is still recovering from an Achilles rupture. The team has not provided recent updates on his recovery timeline, but expectations suggest he may not return until after the new year.
Projected Lineup and Rotation
With these injuries, head coach James Borrego will likely turn to Jeremiah Fears, Bryce McGowens, Trey Murphy, Saddiq Bey, and Derik Queen to fill the starting roles. Notably, Zion Williamson has been coming off the bench, a strategy that will likely persist. The Pelicans’ rotation will also feature Jose Alvarado, Jordan Hawkins, Micah Peavy, and Karlo Matkovic. Yves Missi’s role remains fluid, as his minutes will depend on the game’s dynamics.
Suns Face Their Own Challenges
On the other side of the court, the Suns will also contend with injuries, as they will be without Grayson Allen and Jalen Green in their backcourt. Green has been on the sidelines for most of the season with a hamstring injury, while Allen is dealing with knee issues. Despite these setbacks, the Suns have proven to be one of the surprise teams of the season, currently holding a 16-13 record and sitting seventh in the Western Conference standings.
As the Pelicans look to turn their season around, securing victories against teams like the Suns at home will be pivotal. The atmosphere at the Smoothie King Center is sure to be electric as fans anticipate what promises to be an engaging matchup.
