Bryce

McGowens

Murphy hasn’t played since the final game before the All-Star break, but a return appears to be imminent. Until Murphy is back, Jeremiah Fears and Bryce McGowens should see additional run, but the return of Dejounte Murray (Achilles) adds uncertainty to New Orleans’ rotation.

Having last appeared in a game on October 29, Jordan will make his third appearance and second start of the season on Saturday. He’ll match up with Andre Drummond, with the Pelicans likely hoping that their veteran pivot can keep his 76ers counterpart off the glass. Bryce McGowens heads to the bench.

On the same day that he agreed to a three-year deal, McGowens has been moved into the Pelicans’ starting lineup. He’ll fill the void left by Trey Murphy, who is out with a right shoulder contusion suffered before the All-Star break.

The fourth-year man has taken on an increased role with New Orleans, averaging 9.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.0 triples across 27.1 minutes in 11 starts. He should see increased run until Trey Murphy (shoulder) returns, and McGowens should earn extra minutes any time Zion Williamson is sidelined.

Williamson had to exit Wednesday’s loss to the Pistons prematurely due to illness. His absence from the initial injury report for Friday’s game means that he’ll be ready to take on his usual responsibilities within the Pelicans’ lineup. Micah Peavy and Bryce McGowens will lose out on minutes, especially if Herb Jones (ankle) is available.

Jones will sit out another contest, and Saddiq Bey should see big minutes. Bryce McGowens could see a few rotational minutes, but the latter isn’t a worthwhile waiver wire add.

Bey will be back after missing the last six games for the Pelicans. He’ll immediately return to the starting lineup, which will result in Bryce McGowens not only being pushed out of the starting lineup but being listed inactive for this game.

Bey is on track to return from a six-game absence due to a right hip flexor. Bey should reclaim his starting role from Bryce McGowens, but with Herb Jones (ankle) out, McGowens could see some rotational minutes. McGowens isn’t worth a look in most fantasy leagues due to his limited production.

Bey has missed the Pelicans’ last six games with a strained right hip flexor. With Herb Jones (ankle) also out, Bryce McGowens has started the last two, offering limited fantasy value in that role. Fantasy managers should leave him on the waiver wire.

Alvarado has been out for three straight games, and his absence will extend through at least the end of January. Until Alvarado returns, Jordan Poole and Bryce McGowens should see additional playing time, while Jeremiah Fears continues to hold things down in the first unit.