Jordan Poole was downgraded from day-to-day to out for Thursday's game against the Kings with a left ankle injury. The winless Pelicans will also be without Dejounte Murray and Yves Missi, so they will need minutes from deeper in the rotation.
What happened
Jordan Poole has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Kings with a left ankle injury. The Pelicans guard moved from day-to-day to out on the injury report at 6:31 p.m. ET Thursday. The report's comment reads: "Poole (ankle) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Kings." The ankle first showed up Wednesday, when he was listed day-to-day. On Tuesday he was day-to-day with an illness. The severity of the injury has not been announced.
What it means for the Pelicans
New Orleans faces the Kings at 8 p.m. ET Thursday. The Pelicans are 0-4, the 14th seed, and have lost four straight. Poole has played all four games, averaging 15.9 minutes, 6.0 points, 2.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists. The team has not played a game without him. His absence comes with Dejounte Murray (personal) and Yves Missi (left knee) also ruled out. That removes two players who average more than 19 minutes. Jeremiah Fears, at 22.9 minutes and 9.0 points, is the likeliest guard to pick up more of the ball. Herbert Jones, at 17.4 minutes, could also play more. Zion Williamson (21.8 points) and Trey Murphy III (13.0) will carry the scoring load.
What to watch
The injury report lists Poole's expected return as Oct. 31. That date has not been confirmed as a return to game action, and the team has not given a timeline beyond it. Watch the next injury report to see whether he moves back to day-to-day or stays out. Also watch whether Murray and Missi return, because that decides how thin the guard rotation stays for the next game after the Kings.
Is Jordan Poole playing vs the Kings on Thursday?
No. Poole was ruled out for Thursday's 8 p.m. ET game against the Kings with a left ankle injury.
When will Jordan Poole be back?
The injury report lists an expected return of Oct. 31. A firm return date has not been announced.