New Orleans Pelicans DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Los Angeles Clippers center Mo Bamba (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Houston. The injury-prone big man will take the night off for knee injury management purposes. Bamba has been limited to 10 appearances this season, averaging 4.9 points and 3.9 rebounds with 1.2 blocks in 13.6 minutes. With him out, we should see Kai Jones take care of the backup center minutes behind Ivica Zubac. Jones offers next to no fantasy value.

Toronto Raptors center Kelly Olynyk (back) is set to make his 2024-25 regular-season debut on Saturday against the Dallas Mavericks. This is exciting news for the 33-year-old, who has been sidelined since October due to a back strain. Last season, Olynyk appeared in 28 games for Toronto, contributing 12.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game while playing a key role in the rotation. His minutes will likely be limited in his return, but his presence provides valuable depth to the Raptors' frontcourt. Hopefully, he can stay healthy and make an impact moving forward.

According to Jim Eichenhofer of the New Orleans Pelicans official site, forwardHerbert Jones (shoulder) will play Thursday against the Phoenix Suns. The 26-year-old hasn't suited up since October 29, missing 18 consecutive contests with a right shoulder strain. Being out of action for a while, Jones's minutes will most definitely be restricted until he can get back into game shape. At this time, he will not be a fantasy factor.

The New Orleans Pelicans announced forward Zion Williamson (hamstring) is progressing well through rehabilitation and will be re-evaluated in two weeks. Barring any setbacks and with a tentative timeline in place, the 24-year-old could return on December 19th versus the Houston Rockets. The Pelicans may continue to proceed cautiously and not rush Williamson back, though. However, the team is desperate for help, sitting in last place in the Western Conference, with several injured players.

According to Will Guillory of The Athletic, New Orleans Pelicans forwardHerbert Jones(shoulder) will not play Monday against the Atlanta Hawks as he is dealing with a right ankle strain. The 26-year-old hasn't been able to suit up since October 29 and will miss one more game.Yves Missihas joined the starting five sinceZion Williamson(hamstring) has also been out, and he's averaged 8.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game over the last 15 games. He could potentially be an option at the center for deeper fantasy leagues.