Alexis Ajinca (shoulder) will not play in Monday's game against the Bulls, despite being taken off the injury report earlier in the day.

Ajinca (shoulder) will not play in Monday's game against the Bulls, despite being taken off the injury report earlier in the day.

Analysis:

There was a hint of optimism that Ajinca wouldn't need to rest after sustaining a right shoulder injury Saturday against the Suns, although he will indeed sit after playing in 12 consecutive games for a battered New Orleans squad. In his absence, expect Dante Cunningham and Luke Babbitt to cover Ajinca's role at power forward. His next opportunity to play will be in the regular season finale against Minnesota on Wednesday.