New Orleans Pelicans power forward Zion Williamson is not expected to play this season.
Williamson has not appeared in a game this season, after breaking his right foot during an offseason workout this past summer that required surgery. His rehab period has had several complications.
After a MRI revealed a regression in the bone healing of his fifth metatarsal in December, he spent time away from the team rehabbing in Portland, Oregon. Williamson returned to New Orleans earlier this month, which everyone thought was a step in the right direction, after being away for so long. The 21-year-old has been seen doing stationary shooting and can put weight on the injured foot, but now it appears a return this season is not going to happen.
Williamson is no stranger to injuries. A torn right lateral meniscus cost him 58 games of his rookie season, though he still averaged 22.5 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. He managed to stave off injuries in his second year and was able to show what he could really do when healthy. He posted 27 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game, while shooting a blistering 61% from the field.
Williamson has his faults on the court as well. His three-point shooting is only at a 33% clip. Also his defensive intensity leaves a lot to be desired. His elite low-post scoring and his dominance around the rim make up for those deficiencies. The fact that he is injury prone, is a far more series issue.
Despite his absence, the Pelicans have worked their way into the play-in tournament at 30-41, ninth in the West. Jonas Valanciunas, Jaxson Hayes and Willy Hernangomez will continue to hold down the frontcourt responsibilities
down the stretch.
