Portland Trail Blazers continue their demanding road stretch on Thursday night as they prepare to face the New Orleans Pelicans in a Western Conference clash. With both teams looking to swing momentum back in their favor, injuries are playing a significant role—particularly for Portland, who enter the matchup with a lengthy list of unavailable or uncertain players.
Portland aims to rebound amid mounting injuries
Trail Blazers arrive at Thursday’s contest with a 9-15 record, coming off a tough road loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday. Despite the setback, Portland saw solid performances from its key contributors. Jerami Grant paced the Blazers with 21 points and seven rebounds, while Deni Avdija delivered an all-around effort with 17 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists.
With hopes of bouncing back, Blazers will need every available body as they confront a Pelicans squad also struggling to find consistency. But Portland’s injury report paints a challenging picture heading into the matchup.
Donovan Clingan ruled out once again
Portland’s frontcourt takes a major hit as rookie center Donovan Clingan has officially been ruled out due to a lower left leg contusion. This marks his third consecutive missed game, and his absence continues to leave a noticeable void in Blazers’ interior presence on both ends of the floor.
Clingan’s development and defensive impact have been key storylines this season, and Portland will once again be forced to adjust without his size and rim protection.
Robert Williams III listed as questionable
Adding to Portland Trail Blazers’ frontcourt concerns, Robert Williams III is listed as questionable due to an illness. Williams, known for his elite shot-blocking and activity around the basket, could significantly bolster Portland’s rotation if cleared to play. However, his uncertain status raises further concerns about the team’s depth in the paint.
Yang Hansen also joins Williams on the questionable list with a face contusion, further complicating Portland’s options should both players be unavailable.
Backcourt remains depleted
Portland Trail Blazers continue to deal with multiple long-term injuries to their backcourt. Jrue Holiday, Damian Lillard, Scoot Henderson, Matisse Thybulle, and Blake Wesley have all been ruled out as they remain sidelined while recovering from their respective issues. Their continued absence places added pressure on the remaining guards to shoulder scoring and playmaking duties.
Pelicans also enter with struggles
On the other side, the Pelicans come into the matchup with a 3-22 record following a home loss to the San Antonio Spurs. Derik Queen shined with a stellar triple-double—33 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists—while Trey Murphy III added 32 points. However, even strong individual performances haven’t prevented New Orleans from spiraling early in the season.
Thursday’s clash hinges on availability
With both teams searching for stability, Thursday’s game could be heavily influenced by which players are cleared to take the floor. For Portland, the availability of Robert Williams III and Yang Hansen becomes especially crucial given Clingan’s confirmed absence. A depleted frontcourt could make it challenging for Portland Trail Blazers to control the interior, rebound effectively, or protect the rim.