Could Larry Nance Jr. Finally Make His Pelicans Debut?

New Orleans may have a new face in its rotation as forward Larry Nance Jr. should finally see action as a Pelican.

New Orleans may have a new face in its rotation as forward Larry Nance Jr. should finally see action as a Pelican.

The Pelicans were thrilled when veteran guard CJ McCollum was acquired via trade last month from Portland. CJ has been rock steady, with the Pelicans averaging 26 points a game on 50% shooting in 16 appearances. 

The player most have forgotten who also came over in the trade is Larry Nance Jr. It won't be long before Pelicans fans see the versatile forward on the court.

After practicing on Wednesday, Coach Willie Green said, "it's looking good" for Nance to make his Pelicans debut against the Chicago Bulls on Thursday. This season, Nance had appeared in 37 games with the Trailblazers, averaging 23 minutes a game, nearly seven points, and six rebounds. Nance has been sidelined since January 7th after first experiencing right knee inflammation. 

His condition worsened, and eventually, he had to have right knee surgery. He has rehabbed and progressed well enough to join his new teammates on the court.

Mar 21, 2022; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. (22) during pregame warmups against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

Nance will be able to bring some extra versatility off the bench. The 6'7 forward can guard multiple positions and hit mid-range jumpers. 

Nance is a 50% shooter per game on jump shots. Having a big who can rebound, play defense, and stretch the floor will be a vital rotation piece for the Pelicans coming off the bench.

Coach Green's decision to set the Pelicans rotation once Nance returns is unclear. Presently, Willy Hernangomez is coming off the bench in a backup role. You can definitely see a scenario where both are on the court simultaneously to give the starters an extended rest. The good news is we won't have to wait much longer before we can finally see Nance on the court. 

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