Lakers, Pelicans Face Injury Woes Ahead of Friday Showdown

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Pelicans are both dealing with significant injuries ahead of their Friday night matchup. The game will take place at the Smoothie King Center at 8 p.m. ET.

Los Angeles, with an 8-4 record, is looking to bounce back after a tough loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Lakers were defeated despite the Thunder missing key players, including All-NBA forward Jalen Williams.

LeBron James continues to be sidelined due to a right sciatica injury, leaving the team without their veteran leader. Reserve guard Gabe Vincent is also out with an ankle sprain. Rookie forward Adou Thiero has been upgraded to questionable following knee surgery but has not officially returned to play.

On the other hand, the struggling Pelicans, currently holding a 2-9 record, will miss two All-Stars. Zion Williamson remains out with a hamstring strain, while Dejounte Murray is recovering from a severe Achilles injury. The Pelicans are also dealing with additional injuries, including guard Jordan Poole, who is sidelined with a quadriceps strain.

Calls for change are growing louder among Pelicans fans as the team’s poor performance continues. Owner Gayle Benson mentioned that the organization is evaluating the situation, including head coach Willie Green, as they grapple with the losses and injury setbacks.

Despite the roster complications, the matchup highlights the depth and resilience of both teams. The Lakers will lean more on players like Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura while the Pelicans plan to utilize Luka Dončić’s skills to keep them competitive. As they prepare for the game, both teams aim to address their injuries and strive for a much-needed win.

The atmosphere is expected to be intense as fans look forward to an unpredictable contest filled with grit and determination.