The Pelicans Have Announced That Anthony Davis Is Done For The Season

All but eliminated from playoff contention, the New Orleans Pelicans have elected to shut down Anthony Davis, announcing Sunday that their center will not play again this season.

The 23-year-old Davis left Friday’s game against the Portland Trail Blazers after a knee-to-knee collision in the second half and did not return. Following the game, Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry, who also said Davis has a lingering shoulder injury, wouldn’t rule keeping the big man out down the stretch for precautionary reasons.

“I wouldn’t say no to that. I wouldn’t say no to that,” Gentry said Saturday. “I think we’ve gotta be smart collectively, along with him. And like I said, I think we’ll know a lot more after they talk to the doctors today. And then I think there can be some decisions made. I think that’s something that he would definitely have to consider.”

It makes sense for New Orleans not to risk the long-term health of their young franchise player this season when there’s not a whole lot to play for, but I’m sure the decision stings a bit for Davis, especially considering there’s a significant possibility he could be losing $24 million as a result.