The New Orleans Pelicans are experiencing an early challenge in the NBA season, with two key players, Herb Jones and CJ McCollum, set to miss several weeks due to injuries. According to Newsweek, Herb Jones is dealing with a right shoulder strain and a small partial tear in his rotator cuff, which will keep him sidelined for two to four weeks. CJ McCollum is facing a right adductor strain and is expected to be out for two to three weeks.

With important home games approaching at the Smoothie King Center, the Pelicans will need to adjust for the absence of Jones and McCollum. According to Fox 8 Live, the team is expected to rely more on stars Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson. They are set to face the Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers, and Cleveland Cavaliers in a series of matches that could impact their early season performance.

The Pelicans are managing several injuries on their roster. In addition to Jones and McCollum, Dejounte Murray is out with a fractured hand and may be sidelined for an additional three to five weeks. Trey Murphy is also unavailable due to a hamstring strain and is scheduled for reevaluation next week, according to HoopsRumors.

Despite these injuries, the Pelicans have players prepared to step up. Jordan Hawkins, Jose Alvarado, Javonte Green, Jamal Cain, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, and Brandon Boston are expected to receive more playing time. This situation is not new for the team, and their depth will be tested as the season continues. McCollum has averaged over 20 points per game for the past nine seasons, while Jones earned a spot on the All-Defensive First Team for 2023/24.