According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Zion Williamson is no longer expected to suit up this season for the New Orleans Pelicans.
The news comes after a long year of rehab for the former No. 1 pick out of Duke. Williamson reportedly underwent surgery to repair a fractured foot. He was on a good pace in his recovery after being cleared for full team activities in November, but that quickly hit a snag when he suffered a setback that required an injection into his surgically repaired foot to help it heal.
Williamson then decided to rehab away from his team in New Orleans, continuing his rehab process in Portland with a blessing from the Pelicans. Earlier this month, the Pelicans announced the viral basketball sensation could resume basketball activities, but this most recent news puts a damper on many hopes for the season. Since then, Williamson has been doing stationary shooting and has been able to put weight on his injured foot.
Only 11 games remain on the schedule, so the probability of Zion Williamson returning after ramping up is slim. However, Williamson has been an active part of the team, cheering on his teammates from the sideline while gradually going through some basketball activities. The Pelicans (30-41) have climbed back into the play-in tournament as the ninth seed. Their next game is a Monday night affair with the Hornets (36-35).
