The Phoenix Suns were starting to improve when Kevin Durant got hurt again.
The New Orleans Pelicans are beginning to get some injured players back, although star Zion Williamson had a setback, and they are still not performing well.
Both teams are trying to adjust to injuries as they get ready to meet on Thursday night in New Orleans.
The Suns have won three out of their last four games after a five-game losing streak. They are facing a Pelicans team that has lost nine straight games and has the worst record in the Western Conference.
Phoenix defeated San Antonio 104-93 at home on Tuesday night, but Durant injured his left ankle in the second quarter. He is expected to be out for at least a week.
The Suns started the season with an 8-1 record, but after Durant injured his left calf, they went 1-6 without him.
“Obviously tough,” said guard Devin Booker about losing Durant. “It’s impossible to replace what he brings to our team, even just his presence around the team, not even having him on the bench in the second half was tough.
“But we still fought, they came out, punched us in the face to start the half. We just stuck with it, weathered the storm, and it was a growth moment for us.”
Booker scored 29 points against the Spurs and passed 15,000 career points. Phoenix went 3-1 in the NBA Cup but didn’t get the help it needed to move past group play.
“All teams at some point through the season have to deal with (injuries),” Booker said. “I think it’s a special time for more opportunity for other people to get a chance because you never know what’s going to happen later in the season or even the playoffs, to where you just have to figure it out.”
The Pelicans have won only two of their last 20 games due to many key injuries. Their expected starting five have not played together yet this season, but New Orleans is starting to get some players back.
Guards Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum have started the last three games together, which is the first time that has happened since the season opener.
“It’s going to take a little time for everyone to get acclimated,” coach Willie Green said. “They’re still learning each other’s game.”
Murray, who had surgery to repair a fractured (non-shooting) wrist, has made just 27.3 percent of his shots and 24 percent of his 3-pointers since returning four games ago. However, he has averaged 5.8 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and 2.8 steals.
“He’s a heck of a player,” Green said of Murray, “and he’ll continue to find his rhythm.”
Forward Herbert Jones, the team’s top perimeter defender, and leading scorer Brandon Ingram could return as soon as Thursday. However, Williamson’s return won’t happen soon. He will miss at least two more weeks with a left hamstring injury.
“We’re getting used to each other,” McCollum said. “It takes time. We’ve got to speed up our learning curve and continue to get better and continue to give ourselves chances to win games.
“The worst part of the season is behind us. Guys are starting to slowly come back. We’ll be able to give ourselves a chance with a full, healthy roster soon.”
