NBA Player News

Merrill (hamstring) is not listed on the injury report ahead of Thursday's game against the Warriors.

Merrill will return to action Thursday after sitting out Tuesday's game against the Lakers for hamstring maintenance. The 29-year-old sharpshooter is expected to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup, which will likely send Max Strus back to a reserve role. Merrill failed to connect on a three-pointer in his last outing Monday but had scored in double digits in his previous seven contests, and he will look to bounce back Thursday.

Oduro (ankle) is not listed on the Pelicans' injury report ahead of Thursday's game against Portland.

Oduro didn't play in the G League Birmingham Squadron's season finale against the Grand Rapids Gold this past Friday due to an ankle injury, but he's since rejoined the Pelicans and appears to be healthy. The 25-year-old big man has yet to make his NBA debut since signing a two-way deal with New Orleans on March 4.

McGowens (toe) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Trail Blazers.

McGowens' absence streak will extend to 11 consecutive games as he continues to recover from a right small toe fracture. The 23-year-old guard still lacks a clear timetable for a return, and with the Pelicans already eliminated from playoff contention, the team will likely continue to exercise extreme caution. McGowens can be considered doubtful for future contests until the team provides an update.

Dickinson (personal) isn't listed on the injury report for Thursday's game against the Trail Blazers.

Dickinson sat out the G League Birmingham Squadron's season finale last Friday due to a personal matter, but he's rejoined the Pelicans ahead of Thursday's contest. The rookie big man hasn't made an appearance at the NBA level since the Pelicans' Oct. 22 season opener and isn't guaranteed to be active Thursday.

Matkovic (back) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against Portland.

Matkovic is dealing with lower-back spasms and could miss his first game since March 3. If the 25-year-old big man is unable to suit up, Derik Queen and DeAndre Jordan would be candidates to see increased playing time.

Murphy (ankle) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Trail Blazers.

Murphy is in danger of missing his fourth consecutive contest due to a lingering right ankle sprain. With New Orleans already eliminated from postseason contention, the team has little incentive to rush the 25-year-old wing back to the floor. If Murphy remains sidelined Thursday, look for Jeremiah Fears and Jordan Hawkins to continue logging increased minutes.

Bona will start in Wednesday's game against Washington.

With Joel Embiid (illness) ruled out, Bona will draw the start. In 14 starts during the campaign, the 23-year-old has averaged 6.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 0.7 assists, 1.2 blocks and 0.9 steals while shooting 52.2 percent from the field in 22.4 minutes per showing.

Champagnie won't start Wednesday's game against the 76ers.

With Bilal Coulibaly (heel) back in the lineup following a one-game absence, Champagnie will slide to the second unit. He has averaged 9.2 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 21.0 minutes per game over his last five appearances off the bench.

Wagner (ankle) will start Wednesday's game against the Hawks, Cody Taylor of USA Today reports.

The 24-year-old forward will return from a 22-game absence due to a left high-ankle sprain and reclaim his spot in the starting five from Tristan da Silva. Wagner sustained the ankle injury Dec. 7 and has played in just four games since, so he's likely to operate under a minutes restriction during his return to action.

Rollins (hip) won't play in Wednesday's game in Houston.

Rollins didn't suit up for Sunday's 127-113 loss to the Clippers before returning for Tuesday's win over the Mavericks. He logged 36 minutes, finishing with 24 points, seven rebounds, nine assists and one steal across 36 minutes. However, the 23-year-old won't play in the second half of this back-to-back. With Kevin Porter (knee) out as well, the Bucks will likely lean on Andre Jackson, AJ Green, and Gary Trent to handle most of the work in the backcourt.