The New Orleans Pelicans suffered their first loss of the season Saturday night at home against the Utah Jazz, and also lost starting point guard Elfrid Payton to a right ankle sprain.

Elfrid Payton signed a one-year deal with the Pelicans in July. He spent time last season with the Orlando Magic and Phoenix Suns. Payton is replacing veteran floor general Rajon Rondo, who signed with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Via RealGM's Keith Smith:

Anthony Davis already out tonight with a right elbow sprain and now Elfrid Payton is out with a right ankle sprain. Hopefully this isn't the start of a walking wounded routine for the Pelicans.

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Elfrid Payton has been playing very well for the Pelicans. The 24-year-old is averaging 14.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 7.0 assists per game while shooting 51.1 percent from the field, 42.9 percent from beyond the arc and 63.6 percent from the free-throw line. Those numbers will go down now, though. Payton played 16 minutes before getting hurt Saturday and didn't score.

The Pelicans lost this one to the Jazz, 132-111. Sans Anthony Davis, Nikola Mirotic and Jrue Holiday led the scoring attack for New Orleans with 25 and 18 points, respectively.

Guard Ian Clark will see more playing time if Elfrid Payton is forced to miss any games. Payton has been starting for the Pelicans alongside combo guard Jrue Holiday.