The Pelicans have shuffled their frontcourt, giving Karlo Matkovic his first start of the season against the Kings.
Key points
- Matkovic receives his first start of the 2026-27 campaign on Thursday versus the Kings.
- He has averaged 5.0 points and 2.3 rebounds in 11.7 minutes over three games.
- DeAndre Jordan has been starting due to Yves Missi's knee injury, but Matkovic replaces him in the forward slot for this game.
The New Orleans Pelicans announced that forward Karlo Matkovic will be in the starting lineup for Thursday's game against the Sacramento Kings, his first start of the 2026-27 NBA season.
Matkovic has seen limited minutes off the bench in the first three games, averaging 5.0 points and 2.3 rebounds in just 11.7 minutes per contest, according to RotoWire's game logs.
Matkovic earns first start
Center DeAndre Jordan has been starting in the wake of an injury to Yves Missi, who is sidelined with a knee issue, but the coaching staff opted to give Matkovic a look at the forward spot for Thursday.
The move could have implications for fantasy basketball owners, as Matkovic's increased role may boost his minutes and statistical output in the upcoming matchup.
Reader questions
When is Karlo Matkovic's first start of the season?
He is slated to start Thursday in the Pelicans' game against the Sacramento Kings.
What are Matkovic's statistics so far this season?
He has posted averages of 5.0 points and 2.3 rebounds in 11.7 minutes per game over three appearances.
Why is Matkovic starting instead of DeAndre Jordan?
Jordan has been starting due to an injury to center Yves Missi, but the coaching staff chose to give Matkovic a look at forward for Thursday's matchup.
Source: rotowire.com
