The Wizards are struggling. They have won only six games so far and are currently the bottom-ranked team in the East. However, they surprisingly came out on top this Wednesday against the Bulls, thanks to a dominant performance by a returning Jordan Poole. Sure enough, the Wizards would be hoping to carry that momentum to tonight’s Pelicans clash, especially because Poole’s injury concerns seem to be over.

Yes, Poole will probably suit up tonight because he is not listed on the latest injury report. Well, his availability was in question because he recently missed two straight games before returning to the lineup on Wednesday. The reason? A bruised left hip. But that does not seem to be an issue anymore. Obviously, this is amazing news for the Washington-based franchise because Jordan is having his career’s best individual year, averaging 21.7 points and nearly five assists.

While JP will be available, a few key players are out injured. Of course, Saddiq Bey remains out as he is still recovering from a left ACL surgery. Joining him is Marvin Bagley III, who recently suffered a knee injury, and there is still no timeline for his return. Moreover, Bilal Coulibaly will also sit this one out as he continues to deal with a non-Covid illness that limited him to playing only nine minutes on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, for the Pelicans, they will continue to play without superstars Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Sure enough, Zion has not played since early November due to a hamstring injury. However, he is nearing his return and has begun limited participation in practice. On the other hand, BI will be reevaluated in a few days to see how his recovery from an ankle injury is progressing. Karlo Matkovic is also likely to be out with a back injury.

Additionally, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl could miss his third straight game because he is questionable with a sprained left ankle. Amid the multiple injured stars, the good news is that Jose Alvarado could finally return from the hamstring injury as he is now listed as probable. He has not suited up since November 11.

Wizards and Pelicans’ Depth Chart after Jordan Poole’s availability

With Poole likely to be available, this is what the Wizards’ Depth Chart looks like:

Obviously, Jordan will start the game like he did against the Bulls. But, Coulibaly’s absence could lead to Kyle Kuzma starting the game. In that case, this would be his first start since returning from a rib injury.

Meanwhile, this is what the Pelicans’ Depth Chart looks like:

As expected, Zion and Ingram’s unavailability will surely affect the team’s depth. But Alvarado’s return could provide a huge boost and he will probably start the game right away.

Sure enough, both teams will face each other for the first time this season. Ironically, they are somehow in the same boat because they are each at the bottom of their conference standings. Last season, the Wizards got swept in the season series. However, Jordan Poole and Co. could turn the tables tonight as the Pels are extremely shorthanded. Whose side are you on?