In a significant boost for the struggling franchise, star forward Zion Williamson has been officially cleared to play and will be available for the New Orleans Pelicans when they host the Houston Rockets on Thursday, December 18. His name was notably absent from the team's latest injury report, confirming his return to action.
Williamson's Return from Hip Injury
Williamson makes his comeback after missing approximately two weeks due to a grade 2 right hip adductor strain. The power forward recently returned to the court earlier this week in a game against the Chicago Bulls. In that contest, he played a controlled role off the bench, logging under 27 minutes of action while scoring 18 points. His performance, particularly his movement and effectiveness around the basket, indicated that the injury is no longer a major restriction.
The Pelicans' coaching staff is expected to maintain a cautious approach with their franchise player. For the upcoming game against the Rockets, Zion Williamson is once again likely to come off the bench as the team carefully manages his minutes and workload to help him regain full game shape.
Pelicans' Season of Struggle and Injuries
The 2025-26 NBA season has been another challenging chapter for both Williamson and the Pelicans. Injuries have been a persistent theme, limiting the former number one overall pick to just 11 games played so far. This latest hip issue followed previous problems with his hamstring and foot, continuing an unfortunate pattern that has marred his professional career.
When he has been on the floor, however, his impact is undeniable. His elite scoring efficiency and formidable physical presence remain the team's clearest strengths. The Pelicans enter this matchup with a dismal 5-22 record, placing them at the very bottom of the highly competitive Western Conference. The constant lineup shuffles and absence of key players have prevented the team from building any consistency.
The injury woes extend beyond Williamson. The Pelicans will be without several other important pieces against Houston:
- Dejounte Murray is out for the entire season after suffering a right Achilles rupture.
- Trey Alexander and Hunter Dickinson are unavailable due to G League assignments.
With these absences, the offensive burden will fall heavily on Williamson and Trey Murphy III, who is currently averaging an impressive 21.1 points per game.
Rockets Also Navigating Injury Challenges
The visiting Houston Rockets, despite their strong 16-7 record, are not immune to injury troubles. They will be missing key veterans:
- Point guard Fred VanVleet remains sidelined following right knee ACL surgery.
- Forward Dorian Finney-Smith is out after undergoing left ankle surgery.
Additionally, forward Tari Eason is listed as questionable for the contest due to a right oblique strain. The Rockets are coming off a tough overtime loss to the Denver Nuggets and will be looking to bounce back on the road.
What to Watch For on Thursday Night
This game presents an intriguing clash between teams at opposite ends of the standings. The Pelicans, having secured two consecutive wins, will aim to build momentum, while the Rockets seek to reassert their winning form. All eyes will be on Zion Williamson's minutes and comfort level as he continues his return from injury.
Even in a limited, bench-based role, Williamson's mere presence on the court forces opponents to adjust their defensive schemes. His ability to pressure the paint and collapse defenses creates better spacing and opportunities for his teammates. For a New Orleans team desperate for stability, having their franchise player available and moving well is a crucial step toward establishing the continuity they have lacked all season long.
