In recent years, the New Orleans Pelicans have consistently contended for playoff berths. However, persistent injuries to key players have thwarted their aspirations of making a breakthrough into the postseason. The Pelicans fanbase hopes that this season might be the season that they can qualify for the playoffs, given the immense talent at their disposal. However, the team has started the season with inconsistency. In their last 10 games, New Orleans has won just five games.

Injuries to key players haven’t helped their cause. But the Pelicans have been given a massive boost, as a key player returns after suffering a rare injury.

CJ McCollum returns to training

In a show of great hope to the fans and players, CJ McCollum returned to light practice after suffering a collapsed lung. He suffered this rare injury in a game against the Atlanta Hawks on 4th November. The absence of McCollum has significantly impacted the Pelicans, evident in their record of 5 wins and 7 losses in the subsequent 12 games. However, ESPN journalist Marc Spears has reported, “CJ McCollum (lung) plans to take part in shoot around Wednesday and could return to action as early as that night against the visiting Sixers if all goes well.”

CJ McCollum has played a key role in New Orleans’ upturn in performances in the last couple of seasons. He has quickly become an integral part of this Pelicans’ roster. Before suffering the injury, McCollum averaged 21.7 points, 5.7 assists, and 4.8 rebounds in six games. His three-point efficiency has also proved beneficial, as he has recorded a three-point percentage of 38% this season. The shooting guard’s return might be the catalyst the Pelicans need to turn their fortunes around, especially considering their recent two-game losing streak.

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Can the Pelicans break the glass ceiling?

After drafting Zion Williamson in the 2019 NBA Draft, New Orleans was expected to challenge for the title soon. The Pelicans also had the immensely talented Brandon Ingram on their roster. But, ill-timed injuries to Zion and Ingram had stunted New Orleans’ accession to the very top. They have regularly concluded the season in a mid-table position, leading to a state of uncertainty for the franchise.

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Zion’s poor injury record, coupled with indecision from the front office, has resulted in minimal progress for the team. The Pelicans’ current predicament becomes even more puzzling when you look at some of the immensely talented players they possess. This season, the Pelicans need to perform and live up to the expectations, otherwise their fans might turn on them. They have the tools to become a formidable team for years to come. However, their success will depend on their stars’ ability to stay healthy and motivated.

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