New Orleans Pelicans DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado (hip) is listed as questionable ahead of Saturday's game against the Houston Rockets. The 26-year-old appears to have picked up a left hip injury during his last game which could leave the Pelicans shorthanded this weekend. It's worth noting that Bruce Brown (rest) has been ruled out for Saturday's contest, so Jamal Cain might actually see significant minutes in the rotation if Alvarado is out as well. Cain hasn't done much this season, even in games where he gets increased playing time. That being said, fantasy managers should look elsewhere for help on Saturday.

New Orleans Pelicans forward Bruce Brown (rest) has been ruled out ahead of Saturday's game against the Houston Rockets. The Pelicans have decided to take the cautious approach and give Brown a rest day during the front end of this back-to-back set. Honestly, Brown hasn't been much of a fantasy option lately, so his absence shouldn't be a huge problem for fantasy managers. Jamal Cain will likely see more run in the rotation, but he's not a recommended streaming option right now.

New Orleans Pelicans guard/forward Brandon Boston Jr. (ankle) will remain on the shelf for Thursday's tilt against the Houston Rockets. He is struggling to shake off a left ankle sprain, missing an 11th consecutive contest. Boston Jr.'s next opportunity to return will come on Saturday in a rematch with the Rockets. In Thursday's matchup, Jordan Hawkins and Bruce Brown will continue to lead New Orleans' second unit. Hawkins is looking like a solid fantasy pickup at present, as he has averaged 12.3 points and 3.9 rebounds since the All-Star break.

New Orleans Pelicans guard/forward Brandon Boston Jr. (ankle) has picked up a questionable tag ahead of Tuesday's matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. The 23-year-old may be ready to return to action after sitting out nine games with a left ankle sprain. With Dejounte Murray (Achilles) and Herbert Jones (shoulder) done for the season, Boston Jr. would be a valuable addition to the rotation. The Kentucky product has averaged 10.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 1.3 steals in 23.6 minutes this season.

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (rest) is back in the starting five ahead of Sunday's game against the Utah Jazz. The superstar forward is back in the mix following a rest day on Friday. It was the second leg of a back-to-back set, which always means Williamson is going to sit out. The Pelicans continue to be cautious with the oft-injured forward. When active, Williamson has been an excellent fantasy option, so fantasy managers should get him active in their lineups on Sunday.