Zion Williamson's young NBA career has been marred by injury. It seems as if the former number-one overall pick can't stay healthy. However, that hasn't stopped the New Orleans Pelicans from making a playoff push this season. The Pelicans have earned a spot in the play-in tournament. But one loss and the season will be over. The team knew they would be without Williamson to open the play-in tournament. However, now it seems the Pelicans will not be seeing Williamson at all this season.
NBA insider Shams Charania made an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Monday. During his appearance, Charania spoke on the recent reports regarding Williamson. According to Charania, the expectations are not high for a Williamson return. "His conditioning is just not there. From what I'm told, the Pelicans believe he's not even close to getting back on the floor... There's no expectation from the Pelicans that he will be on the floor at any point in the first round of the playoffs." The news is a tough pill to swallow for the organization.
Zion Williamson Not Close For Return
Questions of Zion's physical shape have long been a concern. If rumors that his weight in previous seasons has been a big issue with the franchise. Meanwhile, the Pelicans will have a large mountain to climb for their playoff aspirations. The team will need to secure two victories in the play-in tournament to secure the eighth seed. Their first challenge was the Oklahoma City Thunder. So thoughts of a first-round playoff appearance should be far from their minds at the moment.
Zion Williamson was once regarded as one of the most important draft picks of his generation. His playmaking abilities were to for sure make the Pelicans a dangerous threat. However, now the team has to wonder if the injury bug will forever be linked to Williamson. The frustrations in New Orleans are starting to reach the surface. Obviously, the team and Williamson have a lot to think about pertaining to their future. Do you believe Williamson should attempt to give it a go if the team makes the first round? Will the Pelicans begin planning a future without Zion? Let us know your thoughts on the matter in the comment section. For the latest NBA news, keep it right here at HNHH.