Saddiq Bey Ruled Out Monday with Ankle Injury; Pelicans Forward Faces Extended Absence

Saddiq Bey has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Thunder due to an ankle injury. The 25-year-old forward, currently affiliated with the New Orleans Pelicans, is also recovering from a left ACL tear suffered in March 2023, making him unlikely to be ready for the start of the 2024-25 season. Despite this, the Wizards signed him to a three-year, $20 million contract this offseason, where he is expected to face competition for minutes from Kyle Kuzma, Bilal Coulibaly, and Corey Kispert upon his return. Bey had a down year in 2023-24, averaging 13.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists on poor efficiency (41.6% FG, 31.6% 3PT). His career includes stints with the Pistons and Hawks, where he once averaged 16.1 points in a full season and recorded a 50-point game.