Trey Murphy III is on the injury report, but the Pelicans forward still appears likely to suit up Friday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
New Orleans listed Murphy as probable with bilateral patella tendinopathy for the matchup in New Orleans. The 26-year-old has been a steady force for the Pelicans through seven games this season, averaging 14.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.4 assists while shooting 45.5 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from 3-point range.
The Pelicans also have several other names to monitor. Julian Reese, on a G League two-way deal, is probable.
Jaron Pierre Jr. and Malik Dia, both G League two-way players, are doubtful. Yves Missi is out with a left knee contusion/bone bruise.
Minnesota’s injury list is shorter, but it still includes a key name. Terrence Shannon Jr. is questionable with a left hip contusion, while Anthony Edwards remains out after right knee arthroscopy. Donte DiVincenzo is also sidelined following right Achilles tendon repair/surgery.
The Pelicans come in at 4-4 after a 120-113 win over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night. New Orleans has been up and down early, but that victory kept it moving in the right direction.
The Timberwolves are 6-3 after a 117-107 road win over the Houston Rockets. Even without Edwards, Minnesota is trying to keep its momentum going.
Friday’s game pits the 10th-place Pelicans against the seventh-place Timberwolves, with tip-off set for 8 PM ET in New Orleans.
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