Pelicans' Alexis Ajinca: Expected to play vs. Hornets

Ajinca (shoulder) is expected to play Saturday against the Hornets.

Analysis:

Ajinca was held out of action Friday against Portland due to a shoulder injury, but he appears to be trending in the right direction as Saturday's tip-off approaches. Barring a setback, Ajinca will be available, meaning Omer Asik could see a slightly reduced role, though he played only 17 minutes Friday night.