The New Orleans Pelicans have dealt with a plethora of injuries this season. Unfortunately for the team, the injury bug continues to hit. According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Pelicans big man Yves Missi suffered a right knee injury. The rookie was set to take part in tonight’s Rising Stars Challenge. However, due to the injury, he will not compete in the game. Scotto also reported that an MRI showed “no structural damage” and that Missi will be re-evaluated next week.
New Orleans Pelicans center Yves Missi has been diagnosed with a hyperextended right knee and will be re-evaluated next week, team says. An MRI taken last night showed no structural damage. Missi will not compete in tonight’s Rising Stars game at 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend. pic.twitter.com/nmznOXIe2v
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) February 14, 2025
This season, the 20-year-old has appeared in 52 games for the Pelicans and started 46 of them. In those games, he averaged 8.5 points, 8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.4 blocks. While highly unlikely, Missi is a betting candidate to win the Rookie of the Year award this season, according to Bovada Sportsbook. San Antonio Spurs guard Stephon Castle (+135) remains the betting favorite.
With the All-Star break beginning tonight, it is unclear if Missi will miss any time in the regular season. If he does, the Pelicans may have to rely on recently-acquired big man Kelly Olynyk.
Yves Missi Suffers Injury, Will Be Re-Evaluated in 1 Week
Yves Missi’s Injury Is Not the Only One Impacting the New Orleans Pelicans
Missi is not the only Pelicans player dealing with an injury. All season, the Pelicans have had to overcome plenty of injuries. This includes Brandon Ingram, who the Pelicans traded to the Toronto Raptors at the deadline.
Dejounte Murray and Herbert Jones each suffered season-ending injuries, and Zion Williamson has been on and off the injury report all season. Despite having a talented team on paper, the Pelicans rank as one of the worst teams in the NBA. At the All-Star break, they are 13-42 and own the worst record in the Western Conference. Overall, they have the second-worst record in the entire league, only ahead of the Washington Wizards.
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Fortunately for Missi and the Pelicans, his injury does not seem to be too serious. Additionally, if such a time exists, his injury happened at the best possible time in the season. He will be able to rest and recover while the Pelicans are on a break regardless.
The outlook for the rest of the season looks bleak for the Pelicans. While they could theoretically still make a postseason appearance, this seems incredibly unlikely. A lot would have to go right the rest of the way, and given that they just snapped a 10-game losing streak, it will be a big challenge. Regardless, there is still a lot to like about the team next season. When healthy, the Pelicans have an intriguing roster. Additionally, as long as Williamson can remain healthy, the Pelicans are a potential playoff threat. This season is likely over for the Pelicans. However, they will have an opportunity to bounce back in the near future.
Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
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