Skip to main content

Lakers News: LA Could Benefit From Major All-Star Rival's Injury Setback

With the dominant power forward sidelined, this gives the Lakers an advantage in the team's upcoming matchup against the Pelicans.

As Pelicans star forward Zion Williamson misses additional weeks after re-aggravating his hamstring injury, this could improve the Los Angeles Lakers' chances at a win when they face New Orleans this upcoming Wednesday.

Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin announced on Sunday that the Pelicans star will be missing more time and re-evaluated after the All-Star break.

Lakers beat reporter Kyle Goon of The Orange County Register shared his opinions on this news and how it will benefit Los Angeles: 

Williamson hasn’t played since January 2 and unfortunately aggravated his hamstring during his recovery process.

Williamson was set to play in his second career All-Star game. In 29 games this season, the former No.1 overall pick averaged 26.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.6 assists while shooting 60.8% from the floor.

There is no doubt that the power forward was an explosive force prior to this injury, which gives the Lakers an upper hand now that he will be sidelined for the two team’s upcoming matchup.

Since Williamson has been injured, it is clear how much the team needs Williamson. The Pelicans have dropped to seventh place in the Western Conference at 29–28.

On the Lakers' side, they have also experienced having to play without one of their key players as Lebron Jame has been sidelined ever since his record breaking-game due to a lingering foot issue.

Luckily for Los Angeles, James is expected to be ready to play on Wednesday against the Pelicans. Every game is crucial for the Lakers, so with the Pelicans All-Star out, and the Lakers All-Star hopefully returning, this could give LA an edge.