New Orleans Pelicans — Dallas Mavericks: анонс і статистика гравців (4 січ. 2027 р.)

Lively (foot) is listed as out for Thursday's game in Minnesota. Lively is still working his way back from foot surgery. He's reportedly trending favorably, though he should continue to be classified as week-to-week, at least until the team provides an update. While Lively remains on the shelf, Daniel Gafford is expected to stay in the starting lineup, with Morez Johnson (shin), Santi Aldama and Moussa Cisse all in line to spend time at the five when needed.

Gafford (face) won't return to Saturday's game against the Cavaliers, Grant Afseth of DallasHoopsJournal.com reports. Gafford took a shot by Thomas Bryant and exited the game after making two free throws earlier, but the center won't return. This means Morez Johnson and Santi Aldama should see more time in the frontcourt. Gafford ends the contest with 10 points (4-5 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 1-2 FT), three rebounds and an assist across 17 minutes. His next chance to play will come Sunday against the Celtics on the second leg of a back-to-back set.

Christie (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against Cleveland. Christie was doubtful to play due to a left ankle sprain, and he will indeed be forced to sit out his second contest of the 2026-27 campaign. Expect Naji Marshall and Zaccharie Risacher to see a boost in minutes.

De Larrea (knee) has been ruled out for Thursday's game at Minnesota. De Larrea hasn't played since Oct. 26 due to a right knee sprain, but he's expected to be re-evaluated soon. Still, he can be considered week-to-week until Dallas provides an update on his progress.

Biberovic (heel) is out for Thursday's game against Minnesota. Biberovic remains plagued by right heel bursitis. The rookie forward carries no timetable for his season debut.

Murphy (knees) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Nuggets. Murphy will miss a fourth straight game as he continues to battle bilateral patellar tendinopathy. His next opportunity to return to the court will come Monday against the Warriors. Saddiq Bey should continue to work in an elevated role in the meantime.

Murray (ankle) is out for Friday's game against Memphis. This was the expectation after the star guard requested a trade from the Pelicans earlier Friday. Given his standing with the club, Murray can be tentatively considered doubtful for future contests while New Orleans tries to find him another home.

McGowens (elbow) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Nuggets. McGowens will miss his second game in as many days while continuing to deal with a left elbow infection. He'll have another chance to return to action Monday against the Warriors.

Mathurin is out for Saturday's game against the Nuggets due to left plantar fasciitis. Mathurin will miss a second game of the Pelicans' last three, leaving New Orleans without a key second-unit scorer. Mathurin is averaging 5.5 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists across 15.3 minutes per game so far. His next chance to suit up will come Monday at home against the Warriors.

Watford (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against Denver. Watford will miss a fourth consecutive game Saturday due to a right ankle sprain, and it remains unknown how far away he is from returning.