Zion Williamson Unlikely to Return for Pelicans in Play-In Tournament, per Report

Pelicans star Zion Williamson, who has been sidelined since early January with a hamstring strain, is unlikely to return to action in next week’s play-in tournament, according to a report from Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Charania noted that the team is being extremely cautious with Williamson, who is continuing his rehab process in hopes of returning to action in the event that the Pelicans play their way into a first round playoff series.

Although not a setback, the news is certainly disappointing for the Pelicans, who are a different team with Williamson on the court. He has struggled with injuries over his first few professional seasons, from his ailing foot a year ago to his hamstring this year.

However, when Williamson has played, he’s been a force. Over 114 games in his career, Williamson is averaging 25.8 points and 7.0 rebounds per game on 60.5% shooting.

With two games remaining, the Pelicans sit in the No. 8 spot in the West at 41–39 on the season.