While the spotlight has been on the Anthony Davis saga and how the New Orleans Pelicans have struggled this season, Jrue Holiday has quietly had a very strong season. Like All-NBA consideration strong. He has averaged 21.2 points and 7.7 rebounds a game, all while playing strong defense — he leads NBA guards with 54 blocks on the season — and being one of the better floor generals in the league. His effort nightly is admired around the league — the man does not take a night off.
Now the Pelicans will be without him for at least a week, and likely longer, the team announced Thursday.
Roster Update: Jrue Holiday has been diagnosed with a lower abdominal strain. An MRI taken this morning and examination by Pelicans Director of Medical Services/Head Team Physician Dr. Misty Suri confirmed the injury. Holiday will be re-evaluated in 7-10 days pic.twitter.com/8CjE4wqZSe
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) March 7, 2019
In the wake of Davis trying to force his way out of New Orleans, the Pelicans have made Holiday the face of the franchise and their key piece on and off the court. Adjusting to playing on the court without him will be difficult — the Pelicans’ offense is 12.8 points per 100 possessions worse with him off the court.
Expect more Ian Clark and Dairis Bertans. Also, expect even more losses, the Pelicans are not as good without him.
