New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is reported to be "not close to a return to action" as he continues to manage a hamstring injury, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. Williamson has missed the Pelicans' last seven games, having sustained the injury during a loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 6, and it is suggested he will be out for an extended period of time. Since his absence, the Pelicans have struggled, posting a record of just 1-6.
Prior to the injury against Cleveland, Williamson had already missed two games due to hamstring tightness. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding his return is concerning, as the Pelicans have officially listed him as being out "indefinitely" since the initial diagnosis of the strain. On the same day of the diagnosis, medical imaging confirmed the left hamstring strain, and updates on Williamson's status will be provided as more information becomes available.
Despite the circumstances, Williamson expressed optimism regarding his recovery when addressing the media recently. He noted that he is adhering to rehabilitation guidelines and is focused on his return, stating, "Rehab is going great. On track. That's all I can do right now." Since being selected first overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, the 24-year-old Williamson has showcased remarkable talent, but his career has also been marred by injuries. Last season marked a career high for him with 70 games played, while in his first four years, he suited up for just 114 contests. His absence has also been felt this season; prior to the hamstring strain, he was averaging 22.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, alongside a shooting percentage of 45.2. Williamson's injury is compounded by the fact that other starters, such as point guard Dejounte Murray and shooting guard CJ McCollum, have also faced injury challenges. As the Pelicans aim to recover from a 4-12 record, Williamson remains out for the foreseeable future.
