Pelicans Center Jason Smith Out For Season

New Orleans Pelicans starting center Jason Smith will miss the remainder of the season as he recovers from knee surgery, according to a report from John Reid of nola.com.

Smith had surgery on his knee last week to remove loose cartilage in his right knee. He had hoped to come back later this season, saying as much after his surgery. However, the 7 footer will have to wait until next season before he checks into a game.

Smith joins starting point guard Jrue Holiday (out indefinitely with a fractured tibia), and leading scorer Ryan Anderson (out indefinitely with herniated disc) on the Pelicans injury list. Without key players, New Orleans has managed to win 4 of their last 6 games, thanks in large part to Anthony Davis.

Smith suited up in 31 games this season, but had not played since January 18th. He ends the season with an average of 9.7 points and 5.8 rebounds. As the longest tenured Pelican, Smith was voted team ambassador by his teammates during training camp.