Zion Williamson Ruled Out for Pelicans’ Play-In Game

As suspected, power forward Zion Williamson has been ruled out for the Pelicans’ game in the play-in tournament next week, as relayed by Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Williamson’s status was already in doubt because of a hamstring injury that has sidelined him since January. He missed all of last season with a foot injury.

Should the Pelicans advance beyond the play-in game, Williamson’s status would still be in doubt, per Charania.

In other words, he isn’t likely to see the floor again this season, unless perhaps if the Pelicans make an unforeseen deep run in the Western Conference playoffs.

They will continue to rely on the likes of small forward Brandon Ingram and shooting guard CJ McCollum to carry the load.

Williamson has been sidelined since early January, then suffered a setback — which executive VP of basketball operations David Griffin said would keep Williamson sidelined longer than initially expected.

He has been back on the court, working out, and took part in a “rigorous” workout last week, per Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report/TNT.

But apparently, that meant little, as the Pelicans continue to be cautious with Williamson’s return.

Williamson, 22, is averaging 26.0 points and 7.0 rebounds, shooting 61 percent from the field, in 29 games.

The Pelicans have ruled out Zion Williamson for the Play-In Tournament and his status is in doubt for start of potential playoff berth as well. https://t.co/IKmYMPT5qq

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 7, 2023