The New Orleans Pelicans have suffered a setback in their frontcourt, with starting center Yves Missi ruled out indefinitely after sustaining a bone bruise in his left knee.
Missi suffered the injury during the second quarter of New Orleans’ loss to the Utah Jazz on Friday when teammate Zion Williamson fell into him, causing his left knee to hyperextend.
The young center was unable to continue playing and required assistance leaving the court. He did not put weight on his injured leg as he was helped off the floor.
Further evaluation revealed a bone bruise, although the Pelicans have not announced a timetable for his return.
His availability will depend on how the knee responds to treatment and rehabilitation.
The injury comes at an unfortunate time for Missi, who had established himself as New Orleans’ starting center following a strong finish to the previous season and an impressive preseason.
His absence will force the Pelicans to make adjustments to their frontcourt rotation, with Derik Queen and Karlo Matkovic expected to receive additional playing time.
Veteran center DeAndre Jordan could also see an increased role as New Orleans looks to compensate for the loss of its starting big man.
