New Orleans Pelicans rookie EJ Liddell suffers torn ACL in Summer League

New Orleans Pelicans rookie and former Ohio State star EJ Liddell suffered a serious injury during Summer League action, tearing his ACL. Liddell suffered a knee injury during the third quarter of Monday’s Summer League matchup between the Pelicans and the Atlanta Hawks — and an MRI completed by the team confirmed the injury.

EJ Liddell suffers torn ACL during Summer League

Liddell will be out indefinitely, as explained by the Pelicans’ official statement on his injury. Liddell was selected by the Pelicans in the second round of the 2022 NBA Draft out of Ohio State with the 41st overall pick. Liddell averaged 19.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.6 blocks per game last year with the Buckeyes and was projected by some as a potential first-round draft pick.

The injury appeared to be a serious one as he left the court requiring assistance, unable to put weight on his leg. After the game, Pelicans’ Summer League coach Jarron Collins spoke about the sad nature of injuries taking place as players are attempting to make NBA rosters.

“It’s tough,” said Collins. “We mentioned it the other day with Dyson [Daniels]. Injuries are part of the game. You don’t want to see anyone get injured out there. We’ll have more information for you guys tomorrow.”

Dyson Daniels, another Pelicans’ rookie, injured his ankle during their opening game of the Summer League. Luckily for Daniels, team x-rays were negative for any serious injury, although the injury will certainly linger with him as he adjusts to the NBA game.

“It’s really tough seeing that,” said teammate Trey Murphy III about Liddell. “It’s his second game of summer league. Hasn’t even got his feet wet in the NBA yet. Hopefully everything is all good, but you know how severe an injury could be like that.”