The New Orleans Pelicans will be without four starters in a must-win game on Wednesday with Lonzo Ball joining Brandon Ingram, Steven Adams and Zion Williamson on the sideline with a right thumb sprain. After not being included in the injury report on Tuesday evening, Ball was not only added to the injury report but ruled out as well on Wednesday afternoon.
The Pelicans are not officially eliminated from the playoffs but would need to win each of its three remaining games while the Spurs must lose each of their four remaining games. Given the unlikelihood of the outcome, New Orleans opted not to risk playing Ball.
In Monday’s game against the Grizzlies, Ball did have a wrap on his hand around his thumb. It did not appear to impact his shot as he went 5-of-7 from the field and 2-of-2 from the 3-point line in the loss.
Following Wednesday’s game, the Pelicans play Friday at Golden State before returning home to wrap up the season against the Lakers on Sunday.
