The New Orleans Pelicans have a growing injury report. Lonzo Ball is still out after suffering a groin strain nearly two weeks ago, Josh Hart and Jahlil Okafor recently joined him and JJ Redick was the most-recent surprise exclusion for Saturday’s game.
That quartet has joined Zion Williamson and Darius Miller, players with varying forms of long-term injuries, to form more than a starting five of injured players on the bench. Brandon Ingram also joined the parade on Saturday after being listed as questionable heading into the night.
All of it added up to a rather hilariously long list of players out on the night, which Heat beat writer Ira Winderman noted prior to Saturday evening’s game.
For the Pelicans vs. Heat tonight:
No Zion Williamson
No Lonzo Ball
No JJ Redick
No Josh Hart
No Jahlil Okafor
No Darius Miller
With Brandon Ingram questionableBut, yes, they still have Jrue Holiday.
— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) November 16, 2019
Dwyane Wade, who spent many, many years with the Heat on multiple stops during his long career before retiring at the end of last season, is familiar with the Miami nightlife and couldn’t resist a joke at the Pelicans’ expense.
South Beach wins again https://t.co/dqQhCWsNP8
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) November 16, 2019
Ironically, the injuries the Pelicans suffered may have led to a longer night out in the clubs than would be the case if the players had played in the game. It’s a similar reason, though, that the Lakers and Clippers often have success against sides who have a night off in Los Angeles prior to a contest with one of the sides.
Jokes aside, the Pelicans are in an injury crisis that only got worse on Saturday with Derrick Favors and Frank Jackson both leaving the contest against the Heat with injuries.
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