It was earlier this week that Zion Williamson finally returned to the court after missing over two months of action with a left hamstring strain. And he even had a solid comeback game, scoring 22 points and six rebounds. But because the Pelicans were being cautious about his health, he sat out the Blazers game the following night. With some rest under his belt, many believed the high flyer would be back in the lineup tonight against the Sixers. However, a shocking last-minute suspension shattered those hopes!

Turns out, Zion has been suspended for one game by the Pels. The reason? Arriving late to the team flight for Philly on Thursday which is a violation of team policies. Moreover, reports suggest that the star forward has been late for multiple team practices in the limited time he has been healthy this season.

Sure enough, the suspension will also hurt Zion’s pockets as it will cost him over $250K—$253,280, to be exact. Although his absence will hurt the team tonight, Pelicans’ EVP David Griffin is more concerned about the players following team policies. He said in a statement, “This one game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards. His dedication to this organization is of paramount significance to us and to him.”

And Griffin has complete faith in Williamson to not repeat the same mistake going forward. “He has taken accountability for his actions and reaffirmed that commitment to the team today. I’m confident he will continue to evolve positively on and off the floor,” the Pelicans EVP noted.

Hopefully, that remains the case because New Orleans cannot afford their superstar to miss any more time because they are already ranked last in the West standings.

Zion Williamson ‘apologizes’ after violating team policy, vows to ‘Be Better’

Whether it’s a superstar or the fifteenth player on the roster, team policies remain the same for everyone. It’s their job to follow them with complete discipline. And Zion understands it as he takes accountability for his actions: “I take full responsibility for this suspension. I’ve worked extremely hard in rehab to get healthy to deliver for this team. There is no excuse for being late to team activities.” 

Moreover, he aims to do better in the future, “I have apologized to Mrs. Benson and my teammates and coaches and I also owe an apology to the fans. I can and will be better as a teammate and member of this organization.”

Well, Zion is an All-Star caliber player when healthy. Even in his limited appearances this season, he is averaging 22.6 points and nearly eight rebounds. Surely, the Pels want him on the floor every night now that he is healthy, and mistakes like these not only cost Zion money, but they also cost his team a chance to win. Hopefully, he will be back in the lineup for Sunday’s Celtics clash.

What are your thoughts about Zion’s suspension?