Phoenix Suns face challenges as Jalen Green and Grayson Allen sit out against Pelicans
The Phoenix Suns are embarking on a four-game road trip, with their first stop tonight in New Orleans to face the Pelicans. However, their efforts will be hampered by the absence of two crucial starters. Jalen Green continues to recover from a lingering hamstring injury that has plagued him since training camp. While there were initial hopes for his return this week, the Suns have now indicated that he will be re-evaluated in a couple of weeks.
Grayson Allen’s injury complicates matters
In addition to Green, Grayson Allen will also miss tonight’s contest due to a right knee injury that has kept him sidelined for several games. Suns’ head coach Jordan Ott had expressed optimism about Allen rejoining the team during this road trip, but his immediate exclusion raises concerns. “It’s just time. It continues to progress. It’s just a time thing,” Ott shared earlier this week regarding Allen’s status. He noted that the recent schedule has provided several two-day breaks between games, which could have been beneficial for Allen’s recovery. “If we could have three days, it’d be better to get him back,” he added, expressing hope to see Allen in the lineup against the Pelicans.
Jordan Goodwin steps in
Meanwhile, Jordan Goodwin remains available despite a facial sprain, donning a protective mask as he continues to contribute to the team’s efforts.
Pelicans’ roster challenges
On the other side of the court, the Pelicans are also dealing with significant roster challenges, having ruled out four players for tonight’s game. Trey Alexander and Hunter Dickinson are both assigned to the G League, while Herbert Jones is sidelined with a right ankle sprain. Dejounte Murray is also out due to a right Achilles rupture. Additionally, Jordan Poole is listed as probable with left ankle soreness, further complicating New Orleans’ lineup.
Recent performance and matchup history
The Suns are coming off an impressive victory against the Los Angeles Lakers, positioning themselves at 16-13 for the season. In contrast, the Pelicans, with a record of 8-23, recently snapped a six-game losing streak with a loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. As they face off tonight, it marks the second encounter between the two teams this season, with the Suns having won the previous matchup on November 10, where they triumphed 121-98. In that game, Allen set a franchise record for the most three-pointers made in a single contest.
As the teams gear up for the opening tip at 6:00 PM MST, ESPN’s analytics give the Suns a 54.2% chance of emerging victorious.
