The New Orleans Pelicans sealed their playoff spot after a 105-101 win over the Clippers in the play-in game. This will be the Pelicans? first playoff appearance since 2018. Notably, Brandon Ingram scored 30 points, with 6 rebounds and 6 assists. CJ McCollum came in with 19 points.Following the win, the Pelicans will play their first-round against the #1 seed, the Phoenix Suns.
Unfortunately, Zion Williamson wasn?t available for the game because of a right foot injury. He hasn?t played a single game so far this season. During the Pelicans? pre-game workout before their first play-in game against the Spurs, Zion was seen dunking. And, a video of him doing a 360 dunk was a hot topic. Given his injury record, fans didn?t expect to see him this season, but his display during the pre-game workout got the Pelicans? fans hyped. At the same time, he was trolled for massive weight gain.
Chuck. 💀💀
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) April 16, 2022
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During the post-game interview with Brandon Ingram, Barkley made a funny remark about Zion Williamson?s weight gain to Brandon Ingram. Charles Barkley?s comment on live TV about Zion?s weight gain has taken the NBA world with shock.
NBA fans stunned
Barkley’s comments on Zion’s weight gain stirred up a lot of comments from the NBA fans. One Twitter user replied, ?Lol barkley is one to talk. Dude would always show up out of shape when he played?. Another user said, ?Zion can dunk better than chuck any day in his prime?.?
The fans mulled over the irony in Charles Barkley?s comments about Zion?s weight gain, considering he himself struggled with weight issues during his playing career.?
Pelicans without Zion Williamson
Things looked promising for young Zion Williamson last year as he averaged 27 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. He also made his first all-star appearance that year. But things took a turn for the worse when he got injured.
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The New Orleans Pelicans made a successful comeback to win against the LA Clippers to book their spot in the playoffs. While Brandon Ingram has had decent support to shoulder the scoring burden, Zion?s addition will be a boon. Not only on the offensive end, but also on the defensive end.
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Even though the Phoenix Suns had a franchise record-breaking regular season, the return of Zion Williamson will make things tricky. Although he hasn?t been ruled out yet, it is highly unlikely that he will play this season. The Pelicans might not want to risk him by throwing him into the business end of the NBA season. Do you think the Pelicans should let Zion play now if he thinks he is ready? Share your thoughts.