Zion Williamson has been listed as available to play by the New Orleans Pelicans for Tuesday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Anticipation has been building over the last few days with Williamson having returned to 5-on-5 action in practice. Now, it looks like whatever hamstring issues he may have been dealing with are in the past.
This will be the Pelicans’ second home game since the New Year’s Day tragedy.
Expectations For Williamson
One would expect a minutes restriction for Williamson, having not played since Nov. 6.
He has only played in six games this season, averaging 22.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and 5.3 assists.
The biggest concern with Williamson so far has been his offensive efficiency, shooting just 45.9 percent on two-pointers. That would be by far a career-low, and perhaps reflective of his declining athleticism and power as injuries have taken a toll on his body.
For his career, Williamson is shooting 59.5 percent on twos.
What To Look For?
As is always the case with Williamson, his burst going toward the basket will be the main area of focus upon his return.
That explosiveness had the basketball world captivated by his potential, and he will have to showcase he still has it in him to be viewed as an elite player in this league.
He’ll have to do it often, too. Injuries have unfortunately been the story of Williamson’s career thus far. As a result, he’s in rarified air fighting for his career, having been the No. 1 pick in the draft as recently as six years ago.
New Orleans inserted several stipulations into his current contract, so the next year of his deal has already become non-guaranteed.
Simply being on the floor more often than he’s not would be an accomplishment over the remainder of this season.
