REPORT: Pelicans Eyeing CJ McCollum's Return To The Court

NBA Insider provides a report on CJ McCollum's long-awaited return to the court.

New Orleans Pelicans expect guard CJ McCollum to return to the lineup this week, according to a report by Shams Charania of The Athletic.  The veteran guard may play in the home games against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday or the San Antonio Spurs on Friday. After dropping two straight games in Salt Lake City to the Utah Jazz, McCollum's return would boost the team.

Nov 4, 2023; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum (3) dribbles against Atlanta Hawks guard Dejounte Murray (5) during the second half at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

"Sources tell me the Pelicans and CJ McCollum are aiming for his return sometime on their two-game home stand Wednesday against the 76ers or Friday against the Spurs. McCollum has been sidelined since Nov. 4 due to a small collapse in his lung but averaged nearly 22 points and six assists in his first six games this season. So this is hopeful news, as New Orleans has won five of their last seven games entering Monday's contest against the Jazz." - Shams Charania

New Orleans has missed McCollum's floor leadership and scoring since disclosing his health issue after the Nov. 4 loss to Atlanta.  He averaged 21.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists in six game appearances in the 2023-24 season.

NBA News: Pelicans CJ McCollum 'Close' To Returning