Zion Williamson Injury Update: Will the Pelicans Star Play Tonight vs the Hornets?

The New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson is experiencing a turbulent start to this season. In probably his most important career game, the Pelicans suffered a humiliating loss against the Lakers in the In-Season semi-final game. Zion contributed only 13 points and 2 rebounds. To make matters worse, he missed the previous game against the Wizards due to a left ankle sprain injury. The Pelicans are set to face the Hornets tonight in their first match-up of the season. 

However, Zion’s participation is uncertain, since the recurring nature of ankle injuries makes it a challenging decision on whether he will play tonight.

Williamson is likely to miss tonight’s game 

Zion’s physical condition has become a major issue, as clearly evident in his average performance so far. The head coach has stated his recent injury saying that Zion’s ankle is fine, but his status remains day-to-day. At the time of writing this, the team officially lists him as ‘questionable’ in the injury report. Additionally, Larry Nance Jr. (Right Rib; Fracture) and Matt Ryan (Right Elbow; Surgery) are ruled ‘out’ for tonight’s game.

This is the second consecutive time they have listed him as questionable. He sustained this recent ankle injury during the December 11 game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. His lack of fitness and energy continues to plague the Pelicans, and his weight is a cause for concern, impacting his performance on the court. 

Pelicans have set clear expectations

Concerns about Zion’s health and fitness are not limited to fans; the franchise and management also share this apprehension. Zion’s statistics reflect this struggle. Despite his athletic abilities as a big player, his numbers are merely decent, averaging 22.9 points and a disappointing 5.6 rebounds per game. 

READ MORE: Despite Insane Transformation, Zion Williamson Gets Mixed Reaction From Fans Ahead of Potential Career-best Season: “29 Game Season Loading”

The Pelicans’ efforts to address this issue with Zion seem to fall on deaf ears. According to Pelicans’ reporter Christian Clark, the team has repeatedly emphasized the need for improvement in Zion’s diet and conditioning. However, multiple team

sources have revealed that Williamson simply “doesn’t listen.”

23 YO Williamson can’t afford to be casual about his health and injuries now. The Pelicans did sign. a max contract but with a weight clause, so if his weight continues to be an issue, he is likely to lose money.

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