The New Orleans Pelicans are expected to keep center Omer Asik out for the final three weeks of the season, according to ESPN’s Justin Verrier.
Asik recently contracted a bacterial infection, causing him to lose significant weight and miss several games, head coach Alvin Gentry said. It’s believed he contracted the infection in Mexico during the All-Star break.
“He went through a tough time trying to see what was wrong with him,” said Gentry. “I think it’s a slim chance that he’ll be back playing this year.”
Gentry, per ESPN, also said it’s unlikely that Quincy Pondexter (left knee) will return this season.
“Both of those guys will be gearing toward the summer and next year, really,” Gentry said.
Omer Asik, 30, signed a five-year contract with the Pelicans in the summer of 2015. He’s missed each game since the All-Star break because of the illness.
New Orleans reached a trade agreement with Sacramento that brought in All-Star center DeMarcus Cousins during Asik’s absence, meaning any role Asik has once he returns has already likely decreased.
Asik, in 31 games with the Pelicans this season, averaged 2.7 points and 5.3 rebounds in 15.5 minutes per game. He’s currently in his third season with the team and seventh season in the league.
