After weeks of anticipation, Zion Williamson has finally returned. New Orleans’ franchise cornerstone played for the first time in over two months on Tuesday, and the results were stellar. Recovering from a hamstring injury, the Duke alum tallied 22 points, six rebounds and four assists in just 28 minutes vs. the Timberwolves.
While the seven-win Pelicans are a long shot to make the playoffs, it was still good to see Williamson back on the court. Following a scheduled day off on Wednesday, the high-flying superstar should be good to go tonight against the 76ers. New Orleans enters the contest as 5.5-point underdogs on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Best Zion Williamson Prop on DraftKings Sportsbook
Zion’s production is difficult to predict, as its anyone’s guess as to how long he’ll stay on the floor. In what appears to be a lost season for New Orleans, the team could opt to play it safe. However, there’s only so many defeats head coach Willie Green can take. The Pelicans have reached the point where winning is a matter of preventing a total collapse, both on the court and in the locker room.
Philadelphia has also disappointed, struggling all season due to a combination of injuries and underperformance. The team should have Joel Embiid (foot) and Paul George (groin) active for tonight’s game, boosting their play on both ends of the floor. Still, the Sixers have plenty of defensive weaknesses, giving up the third-highest field goal percentage to opponents (47.9%).
Zion’s health is always in question, but he’s a force when active. The two-time All-Star has thrived in this spot before, averaging 31.0 points, 9.2 rebounds and 5.4 assists over five career games vs. Philadelphia. Three of those outings came with Embiid on the court, so there’s no reason to think Williamson can’t dominate tonight, regardless of who suits up on the other side.
It might be wishful thinking to assume Zion plays more than 30 minutes. That might not matter, as the power forward has cleared tonight’s points + rebounds + assists total in each of his previous matchups vs. Philly. Given how good he looked earlier this week, I’m banking on another stellar showing from Williamson.
Best Bet: Zion Williamson over 33.5 points + rebounds + assists
*UPDATE: Williamson has been suspended for tonight’s game vs. Philadelphia due to a violation of team policies.
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