The New Orleans Pelicans have an unfortunate update going forward to the playoffs.

Herb Jones has been officially sidelined due to a posterior labrum tear in his right shoulder. The defensive standout for the Pelicans will remain out of action for the whole next season.

Initially categorized as “indefinitely” out, the situation has become clearer following comments from Pelicans executive vice president David Griffin. It appears to be a significant loss not only for him personally but also for the team’s defensive strategy moving forward.

After not playing since January 8, his condition took a turn when he underwent successful shoulder surgery. Later, the team confirmed it would effectively conclude his season. This news is a tough blow for the Pelicans, who have already been struggling to maintain a competitive lineup. Before the injury, Jones had been showing good defensive numbers.

He was averaging 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.9 steals per game. His versatility and tenacity were integral to the Pelicans’ lineup, helping them maintain competitiveness in the Western Conference. The decision to shut him down comes at a critical juncture as the team is currently on a ten-game losing streak. And it will only worsen after his departure.

Pelicans Hopes Fell Short After Herb Jones Injury Update

As the Pelicans sit at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a record of 12-41, the focus shifts to rebuilding and recovering for the future. Although this season is lost for Jones and the team, there’s hope that he can return stronger next year.

The Pelicans are looking to retool their roster in the offseason, with players like Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, provided they can all stay healthy as they advance. Although, there were high hopes from Jones when he joined the team. The Alabama-born forward had a relatively low showing this season.

He did not play since early Januar against the Portland Trail Blazers. And his average stay on the court remained a season-low 18 minutes. However, he was confirmed to be injured after the game. And all of that unfortunately resulted in his out of action for 18 straight games. Though he made a struggling return for 16 games only to be sidelined again.

Jones was initially picked by the Pelicans in the 2021 NBA Draft with No. 35 overall pick. And his hype played well as he was ranked among the league’s top defensive arms. He also made his way into the top five in the DPOY voting last season.

It was after that game that he was diagnosed with the injury. After playing in the first four games of the season, Jones sat out 18 straight games due to the same shoulder. He returned for 16 games before being shut down again.