As the New Orleans Pelicans gear up for their next NBA Cup matchup, the franchise faces another challenging night with a lengthy list of unavailable players. The team will host the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday at the Smoothie King Center, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT. Fans can catch the action live on the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network, via Pelicans+, or through the radio broadcast on WWL 870 AM.
With several core contributors sidelined, the Pelicans enter the contest looking to snap their early-season struggles while navigating one of the most difficult injury stretches in the league.
Zion Williamson headlines Pelicans’ absentee list
The Pelicans received another significant setback as Zion Williamson has been ruled out with a left hamstring strain. His absence continues to loom large over a team that has yet to find consistent rhythm on either end of the floor. Williamson’s ability to generate mismatches and dominate inside has been irreplaceable, leaving the Pelicans to once again adjust their rotations and scoring plan.
Jordan Poole sidelined with quad strain
Former Warriors guard Jordan Poole will also miss Friday’s matchup due to a left quad strain. Poole’s scoring versatility and perimeter creation were expected to give the Pelicans a boost this season, but his injury has delayed the team’s hopes of establishing a more dynamic backcourt.
With Poole sidelined, the Pelicans will rely heavily on supplemental guard play and hope for improved efficiency from their younger contributors.
Major Blow: Dejounte Murray out with Achilles rupture
The Pelicans continue to feel the impact of the devastating injury suffered by Dejounte Murray, who remains out with a right Achilles rupture. Murray’s defensive instincts, playmaking, and veteran leadership were central components of the team’s blueprint heading into the NBA Cup. His extended absence leaves a sizable gap on both ends of the floor.
Two-Way Players Also Unavailable
The injury list extends beyond the main rotation:
Trey Alexander – Out (G League two-way)
Hunter Dickinson – Out (G League two-way)
With both two-way players unavailable, New Orleans enters the matchup with limited depth across key positions, particularly on the wing and in the interior.
Pelicans’ recent lineup and game details
The Pelicans most recently took the floor in a November 12 loss against the Portland Trail Blazers, fielding a starting unit featuring:
Trey Murphy III
Saddiq Bey
Kevon Looney
Herbert Jones
Jeremiah Fears
As they prepare for another high-stakes NBA Cup group-stage game, the Pelicans will look to lean on their defensive core and emerging young talent to compensate for the overwhelming injury toll.
How to Watch Pelicans vs. Lakers
Game Time: Friday, Nov. 14 at 7:00 p.m. CT
Venue: Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, LA
Streaming: Pelicans+, NBA League Pass
TV: Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network
Radio: WWL 870 AM