CJ McCollum of the Pelicans is sidelined due to his second collapsed lung in two years.

CJ McCollum, a Guard of New Orleans has been diagnosed with a minor pneumothorax according to a medical examination conducted for the basketballer last Sunday.

While the injury served as a blow for fourth place Orleans who encountered their second defeat of the season to the Hawks are yet to confirm the stage of McCollum’s injury until the next 48 hours.

Meanwhile, this isn’t the first time the 32-year-old would be experiencing similar health problem-the last time was in 2021 that cost McCollum missing 17 games due to his six weeks absence.

After suffering the same injury in December 2021 and recovering in roughly six weeks, McCollum, who turned 32 in September, went back to play.

Adding to their already small roster, the Pelicans are struggling with additional serious ailments.

Trey Murphy has been ruled out with a torn meniscus, Jose Alvarado will be reevaluated soon after recovering from a right ankle sprain that also prevented him from playing in this summer’s FIBA World Cup, and forward Naji Marshall is sidelined due to a knee issue.

Despite their injury problems, the Pelicans have started the season well, going 4-2, and McCollum has been a key player in that success.

With the Pelicans in 2023–24, McCollum, 32, is averaging 21.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists.