In a significant setback for the struggling New Orleans Pelicans, their star forward Zion Williamson has been sidelined once again, this time with a right adductor injury that will keep him out for an extended period.
Another Major Injury Setback for Zion
The Pelicans announced that Williamson has been downgraded to questionable for Tuesday's clash against the Minnesota Timberwolves due to right adductor pain. This news comes as a heavy blow, as the former No. 1 overall pick had only just returned to action after missing eight games with a separate hamstring issue.
Williamson managed to play three consecutive games upon his return before sitting out Sunday's 133-121 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. His absence was felt acutely as the team struggled against Luka Doncic and the Lakers, suffering their third straight defeat.
Official Timeline and Team Impact
ESPN's senior reporter Shams Charania provided a grim update on social media, stating that sources indicate Williamson will miss extended time. He is scheduled to be re-evaluated in three weeks, meaning the Pelicans will be without their top scorer for most of December.
Charania detailed, "Williamson returned Nov. 19 after missing just over two weeks with a hamstring injury, playing in five of the Pelicans’ past seven games before sustaining this adductor strain -- which will sideline him for a much longer period."
This latest injury continues a troubling pattern for the 25-year-old phenom. Williamson has now missed eleven of the team's first twenty-one games this season due to various ailments. Since being drafted first overall in 2019, he has been unavailable for roughly 60% of the Pelicans' regular-season contests.
Pelicans' Struggles and On-Court Void
The timing of this injury could not be worse for New Orleans. Following their loss on Sunday, the team's record plummeted to 3-18, the poorest in the entire NBA. Williamson's production, when available, has been stellar, making his absence even more costly.
In his ten appearances this season, Williamson has averaged 22.1 points on 51.0% shooting, 5.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.6 steals in 30.9 minutes per game. He scored 25 points in a close loss to the Golden State Warriors just before this new injury emerged.
With Williamson out, players like Saddiq Bey are expected to shoulder a greater load in the depleted frontcourt. Rookie Derik Queen will also continue to see major minutes, forcing the team to adjust its strategy significantly during a crucial part of the schedule.
This injury marks another disruptive chapter in Williamson's seventh season with the franchise. A two-time All-Star, his career averages of 24.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists over 224 games highlight the immense talent that injuries have consistently hampered. The Pelicans and their fans now face an anxious wait, hoping their star can return to full health and finally put his injury troubles behind him.
