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New Orleans Pelicans continue to navigate a turbulent start to their 2025 campaign as they prepare for Saturday night’s interconference road matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. With both teams struggling to find consistency early in the season, availability will play a decisive role — and New Orleans enters the contest with a heavily burdened injury list.
Pelicans facing major absences heading into Brooklyn clash
New Orleans arrives with a 3-20 record after falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves earlier this week. Despite the loss, Trey Murphy III delivered an impressive all-around performance with 21 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists, while Jeremiah Fears added 20 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. However, the team’s ability to build on those individual efforts may be hampered by a depleted rotation.
New Orleans Pelicans have officially ruled out Jordan Poole, who remains sidelined with a left quad strain. The guard has yet to receive a definitive timetable for his return, leaving New Orleans without one of its primary perimeter creators once again.
The team is also without Zion Williamson, who has been ruled out for at least three weeks due to a right adductor strain. Williamson’s absence continues to be a significant blow as New Orleans tries to steady its season amid mounting challenges.
Frontcourt depth tested as Missi remains questionable
In addition to Poole and Williamson, the Pelicans will also miss Herb Jones, who continues to recover from a right calf strain. Meanwhile, Dejounte Murray remains out as he rehabilitates from a torn Achilles, further thinning the backcourt rotation.
One of the most notable uncertainties surrounds rookie center Yves Missi, who is listed as questionable with a right foot and ankle sprain. Missi has already missed two consecutive games, and another absence would leave New Orleans particularly thin in the frontcourt. If he is ruled out, Karlo Matkovic and Kevon Looney are expected to see expanded roles behind Derik Queen as the Pelicans attempt to compensate for the loss of size and mobility in the paint.
New Orleans Pelicans aim to regain momentum despite setbacks
With several key contributors unavailable, New Orleans enters Saturday’s contest looking for resilience as much as results. While the injuries have undeniably disrupted rhythm and depth, New Orleans Pelicans will hope their younger core can carry the load against a Nets team also eager to reverse its early-season struggles.
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