The New Orleans Pelicans and Portland Trail Blazers released their latest injury reports ahead of Thursday’s game.
The Pelicans listed Karlo Matkovic (low back spasms) and Trey Murphy III (right ankle sprain) as questionable, while Bryce McGowens (right small toe fracture) is officially out.
On the Trail Blazers’ side, Damian Lillard (left Achilles tendon) and Jerami Grant (right calf strain) are both out, along with Shaedon Sharpe (left fibula stress reaction) and Vit Krejci (left calf contusion). Three additional players—Jayson Kent, Hansen Yang, and Chris Youngblood—are listed as doubtful due to two-way or G League assignments.
In terms of season averages, the Pelicans rely heavily on Trey Murphy III and Zion Williamson, who are posting 21.7 and 21.3 points per game respectively. Saddiq Bey adds 17.4 points per contest.
Portland’s lineup is also impacted. Deni Avdija leads the team with 23.9 points per game, while Shaedon Sharpe averages 21.4 points.
The Pelicans are on a five-game losing streak, most recently falling 102-134 to Houston and 106-119 to Toronto
The Trail Blazers have won their last two games, beating the Clippers 114-104 and the Wizards 123-88.
This season, the teams have split three meetings. Portland won the first and third matchups, while New Orleans claimed the second.
