The NBA In-Season Tournament semifinals game status for the New Orleans Pelicans and Los Angeles Lakers players.

The New Orleans Pelicans (12-10) and Los Angeles Lakers (13-9) are preparing for a Western Conference shootout in the semifinals of the first-ever NBA In-Season Tournament in Las Vegas.  The game, players, and venue has created plenty of excitement in the league with the newly introduced format. 

During the early season, the young team from New Orleans had to deal with CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Jose Alvarado injuries and absences from the lineups. However, they have all recovered and are ready to battle for the NBA Cup.

Los Angeles is managing an intriguing situation as the Lakers superstars LeBron James (left calf contusion) and Anthony Davis (left adductor, hip spasms) landed on the team’s injury report. But expect them to be available for this showdown against a healthy Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and a very healthy Pelicans squad.  

Davis will play against his former team, the New Orleans Pelicans, who drafted him in 2012. Additionally, the Lakers will face off against their former draft pick from 2016, Brandon Ingram.  The trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Pelicans for multiple draft picks has significantly improved the Pelicans, making them a young, deep, and highly talented group. 

Tonight’s clash will be a physical and dramatic battle.  Besides the $500,000 prize money for winning the NBA In-Season Tournament Cup, it also gives a team bragging rights and confidence ahead of the All-Star break in 2024.

PELICANS INJURY REPORT – 12/7/2023

OUT

• Matt Ryan (right elbow, soreness)
• Larry Nance, Jr (Rib Contusion)