The Pelicans are off to a flying start to the season. But it’s not a Pelicans story if there’s no downside to it. Keeping with that Dejounte Murray suffered a fractured hand and there was no sign of Zion Williamson. Good for them, Brandon Ingram came to the rescue, giving the needed boost to see off the Bulls. But with the Blazers game hours away, the Pelicans fans are eager to know the answer to one question — will their talisman, Zion be back?

Time to pump those fists as the 24-year-old is ready to make his season debut against the Portland side. According to NBA reporter Evan Sidery, “Zion Williamson will make his season debut tonight against the Trail Blazers.”

Zion’s presence could be the boost that the Pelicans need after Murray registered his name on the injury list beside Trey Murphy III, who remains sidelined due to his right hamstring injury.

Prior to their season-opening home game against the Bulls, head coach Willie Green addressed the media regarding Zion’s illness. Without disclosing what flu had affected him over the past few days, Green said, “It’s just some type of virus.” However, he was hopeful that Zion would join the team on their road trip.

Zion had injury-riddled seasons that have impacted his playing time and development. However, he showed improvement last season by appearing in 70 regular season games for the team. The 24-year-old also pushed his averages to 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5 assists while keeping his shooting at 57% from the field.

Despite carrying the team to the postseason tournament, Zion couldn’t continue in the playoffs due to an injury he received in the Play-ins against the Lakers. Without their main man, the Pelicans failed to survive the blow against the Thunder. So, they packed their bags and returned home following a 0-4 first-round series defeat. But this time there are high hopes from Zion and the team.

Zion Williamson and Co. might need the one thing from previous season to achieve bigger goals

Zion is the driving force that can push the Pelicans to their ultimate goal. For that, the 6-foot-6 forward needs to be healthy. Once this concern is solved, the journey will become significantly more manageable for the franchise. After their last season, their stakes of advancing in the playoffs are higher with Zion leading the team.

Zion revealed last season the secret ingredient that helped them grow. It was trust among the players and coaching staff that made the huge difference that the NBA community witnessed in their 49-33 performance. “At the beginning of the season, we were hype but we weren’t all bought in fully. But when you watch us play now, you see it on offense and defense, we’re all bought in. We all trust each other,” Zion said in the presser. “Any team that wins a championship, they have ultimate trust in each other.”

The Pelicans fans would want the team to proceed with the same confidence that they did last season. Their matchup against the Bulls was nothing and with Zion returning to the hardwood, the Pelicans could give a strong fight in the 2024-25 season.