New Orleans Pelicans DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Toronto Raptors forward Bruce Brown (knee) has been ruled out ahead of Friday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Brown is still working his way back from having knee surgery last year. The team hasn't given a timetable for Brown's return, but the hope is that he's back sooner rather than later. The Raptors will likely use a committee approach to fill the void. That means, Gradey Dick, Davion Mitchell, and Ochai Agbaji could all absorb more playing time. Out of the trio, Dick has the highest upside and could be worth a look in deep leagues.

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (illness) isn't listed on the league's official injury report ahead of Friday's matchup with the Trail Blazers. The former Duke Blue Devil missed Wednesday's opener versus the Chicago Bulls due to an illness. However, he practiced in full on Thursday, with head coach Willie Green stating he "looks like he's good to go." While fantasy managers were discouraged to see him miss the first game of the 2024-25 campaign, they are delighted regarding the latest update. The Pelicans could certainly use him on the floor, considering New Orleans will be without Dejounte Murray (hand) and Trey Murphy III (hamstring) for the foreseeable future. Keep Williamson starting in all fantasy lineups, although his presence may mean fewer scorer opportunities for Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, who combined for 56 points in the opener.

New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III (hamstring) will be sidelined for at least the new two weeks due to a hamstring strain he obtained in early October. Murphy III has not yet been cleared for sprinting or physical contact, though he mentioned earlier this week that he's "making steady progress with his rehab." The additional time missed for the 24-year-old isn't a great sign to start the season, but New Orleans is sure to be a bit cautious with his recovery given his importance to the team whether being the sixth man or a spot starter. While Murphy III rehabs his hamstring, fantasy managers should look to target Javonte Green as a potential replacement. Green scored nine points and recorded four steals while posting up a +14 plus/minus in 25 minutes of action against the Chicago Bulls in their season opener. Jordan Hawkins is also likely to be a beneficiary of additional shooting volume as the 22-year-old put up 13 points and seven rebounds Wednesday.

Toronto Raptors forward Kelly Olynyk (back) missed practice on Thursday. Olynyk has been dealing with a back strain that kept him out of Wednesday's season opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The strain will also keep him out of Friday night's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers as he has officially been ruled out. No official timetable has been released for the 33-year-old's return to action but given the nature of back injuries it would not be surprising to see him get an ample amount of time to rest up and prepare. With his absence, the Raptors deployed a three guard lineup against Cleveland that may be likely to continue. Gradey Dick appeared to be the beneficiary and scored 16 points with two blocks on Wednesday. Fantasy managers looking for sneaky value may want to target the 20-year-old.

New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray (hand) had the worst possible debut with the team on Wednesday when he was injured in the season opener against Chicago. Per ESPN's Shams Charania, Murray exited the contest with a fractured left hand. He will be sidelined for an "extended period." Murray totaled 14 points, eight rebounds, and 10 assists with one steal in 30 minutes before being forced to exit. His absence should allow Jose Alvarado and Jordan Hawkins to see more action, while CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram get a usage boost, especially with Zion Williamson (illness) out.