Pelicans’ Kevon Looney Out 2-3 Weeks with Knee Injury

URGENT UPDATE: New Orleans Pelicans center Kevon Looney is set to miss the start of the NBA season due to a left knee injury, sidelining him for at least two to three weeks. The team confirmed this news just hours ago, specifying that Looney has suffered a proximal tibiofibular ligament sprain.

The injury occurred during a preseason exhibition against the South East Melbourne Phoenix on October 5, 2023, raising concerns for the Pelicans as they prepare for their regular season opener on October 22 against Memphis. Looney’s absence is a significant blow to the team, which had high hopes for his contributions this season.

At 6 feet 9 inches, Looney has been a steady presence in the league, entering his 11th NBA season after winning three championships with the Golden State Warriors. Throughout his career, he has averaged 5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. His recruitment was one of the key moves made by new executive vice president of basketball operations, Joe Dumars, this offseason.

In Looney’s absence, the Pelicans will turn to Yves Missi, a promising center and 2024 first-round draft choice from Baylor. Missi had a solid rookie season, playing in 73 games and starting 67, averaging 9.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks in 26.8 minutes per game.

As the Pelicans gear up for the season, fans are left wondering how this injury will impact their performance. With key players sidelined, all eyes will be on Missi and the rest of the squad as they look to fill the gap left by Looney.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.