The New Orleans Pelicans will take on the Utah Jazz Thursday night at the Delta Center, aiming to build on their recent momentum after back-to-back wins against the Philadelphia 76ers and Golden State Warriors. However, they will be without key wing Trey Murphy III, sidelined with a right shoulder contusion, joining teammate Yves Missi who is also out due to a left calf strain. Both injuries have left the Pelicans with significant absences as they try to improve their struggling 17-42 record this season.
Current Injury Concerns for Both Teams
The Pelicans are dealing with multiple injuries beyond Murphy. Trey Alexander and Hunter Dickinson remain out while assigned to the G League on two-way contracts, and Yves Missi continues his recovery from his calf injury. On the Utah Jazz side, the team also faces several challenges with Jaren Jackson Jr., Walker Kessler, Jusuf Nurkic, and Vince Williams Jr. confirmed out for the game. Additionally, Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George are listed as questionable as they work to overcome ankle and hip issues.
Impact of Injuries on the Pelicans and Jazz Performances
New Orleans has shown signs of progress lately, winning five of their last ten games after a difficult season. Trey Murphy III’s absence poses a setback as the Pelicans rely on his scoring and defense to maintain competitiveness. Meanwhile, the Jazz enter the matchup with an 18-40 record and are eager to end a three-game losing streak, which includes a recent 125-105 home loss to the Houston Rockets where defensive struggles were apparent. Utah’s depleted frontline, missing Kessler and Nurkic, further complicates their efforts to secure a win.
Previous Head-to-Head Results Shape Expectations
Last season saw the Pelicans sweep the Jazz in all three meetings, providing New Orleans with a psychological advantage in this back-to-back matchup. With both teams battling injuries and inconsistent performances, this game offers another opportunity to shift momentum before the season’s closing stretch. The Pelicans will aim to extend their winning run while the Jazz seek to recover from recent setbacks.
Updated Injury Lists Highlight Player Availability
Pelicans Out: Trey Alexander (G League – Two-Way), Hunter Dickinson (G League – Two-Way), Yves Missi (Left Calf Strain), Trey Murphy III (Right Shoulder Contusion).
Jazz Questionable: Keyonte George (Right Ankle Sprain), Lauri Markkanen (Right Ankle Sprain/Right Hip Impingement).
Jazz Out: Jaren Jackson Jr. (Left Knee Recovery), Walker Kessler (Left Shoulder Recovery), Jusuf Nurkic (Nose Injury Recovery), Vince Williams Jr. (Left Knee Management).
