New Orleans Pelicans DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

New Orleans Pelicans forward Herbert Jones (shoulder) will miss a 14th straight game on Monday versus Indiana. Jones was ruled out for 2-4 weeks with a right shoulder sprain at the start of the month, meaning he's getting close to returning. But Monday's game comes too soon for him. Brandon Boston Jr. and Jordan Hawkins should continue to see extended minutes during Jones' absence. However, the Pelicans rotation will soon get a major tweak, with CJ McCollum (adductor) and Dejounte Murray (hand) on the cusp of rejoining the action. There's a strong chance McCollum will already be back on Monday.

New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray (hand) has been handed a doubtful designation for Monday's game against Indiana. It's likely Murray will remain out for a 17th consecutive game, but it looks like he isn't far away from returning anymore. Murray had a very unfortunate opening to the campaign when he fractured his left hand in New Orleans' first game. CJ McCollum (adductor) is also nearing a return, and the two are set to give the Pelicans a big lift. Brandon Boston Jr.'s position in the rotation will be under threat once the Pelicans backcourt is healthy.

New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (adductor) has been listed as questionable on the injury report ahead of Monday's clash with Indiana. McCollum last played on Oct. 29, missing 13 games, but he appears to be on the cusp of returning to the lineup. On Saturday, McCollum went through a full-contact practice. McCollum's return will push Elfrid Payton to the bench, where he won't have any fantasy value. Across four games this season, McCollum has averaged 18.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.3 steals.

New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (adductor) will remain out on Friday versus Golden State. He has been downgraded from doubtful to out, missing a 13th consecutive game. Elfrid Payton should receive another start with McCollum on the shelf. He had a solid season debut with 11 points, five rebounds, and eight assists on Wednesday against Cleveland. The Pelicans will have Brandon Ingram (ankle) and Jordan Hawkins (back) back on Friday, but their return will likely impact Brandon Boston Jr. more.

New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (adductor) is listed as doubtful for Friday's game against the Golden State Warriors. McCollum has been out since Oct. 29 due to a right adductor strain but has been cleared for practice, indicating he could be nearing a return. If he remains sidelined for Friday's matchup, Brandon Boston Jr. and Elfrid Payton might take on additional minutes. McCollum has made a strong impact in his four appearances this season, averaging 18.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.3 steals per game, though fantasy managers may need to exercise patience as his recovery continues.