The New Orleans Pelicans haven’t had star youngster Zion Williamson play in a single game this season.
While there were reports earlier this season that the Pelicans wanted Williamson to play this year, a new report suggests there is a difference in judgment on whether he should take the floor or not.
“According to multiple sources, there’s currently a difference of opinion between the Pelicans and Williamson on whether he is healthy enough to play,” wrote Andrew Lopez of ESPN. “The team maintains that the bone in Williamson’s foot hasn’t healed enough for him to take the floor.”
Williamson, 21, was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
Upon being drafted, the Duke University product was one of the hottest figures to come into the league since four-time MVP LeBron James was drafted in 2003.
However, Williamson’s first three years in the league have been marred by injury. Although he has showcased signs of stardom in the NBA when healthy, he hasn’t been able to stay on the floor consistently.
Williamson has career averages of 25.7 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game so far. He made the All-Star team during his sophomore season.
There has been a ton of drama between Williamson and the Pelicans. Furthermore, there has reportedly been chatter that the phenom’s family does not want him in New Orleans.
As for the Pelicans, they haven’t allowed injuries and off-court issues to prevent them from being competitive. The franchise’s recent addition of star guard C.J. McCollum has vaulted them into playoff contention.
In fact, the Pelicans will take on the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday night in a crucial play-in game. In the matchup, the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference and a first-round playoff battle against the Phoenix Suns will be on the line.
