Wednesday update: It’s officially a hamstring injury for Williamson, and he will not be playing in Friday’s play-in game against the Kings for the No. 8 seed. There’s no word on Williamson’s future prognosis should the Pelicans advance from that contest, but the injury he suffered Tuesday against the Lakers is having serious consequences for New Orleans. Prior to exiting, Williamson had 40 points, 11 rebounds and five assists and was absolutely carrying the Pelicans offensively. With him sidelined, the scoring onus now falls on Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, who will look to shake off poor showings from Tuesday in the elimination game.
Postgame update: It’s officially a leg injury for Williamson, who left the game due to soreness. Head coach Willie Green says there will be further testing done but the timing is incredibly unfortunate for New Orleans.
Willie Green says Zion Williamson left the game with leg soreness in his left leg. He will have imaging done and an update coming tomorrow. He didn’t give any specifics on what the injury was
— Sharief Ishaq (@ShariefWDSU) April 17, 2024
Update: The Pelicans were unable to complete their comeback with Williamson out, falling 110-106 to the Lakers. This means New Orleans will host either the Kings or Warriors Friday for the No. 8 seed. We’ll see if Williamson is able to suit up in that game as more information comes out regarding the injury which caused him to leave Tuesday’s game late in the fourth quarter.
New Orleans Pelicans power forward Zion Williamson, who has carried his team in Tuesday’s play-in game against the Los Angeles Lakers, has gone to the locker room late in the contest with an unknown injury. Williamson had 40 points, 11 rebounds and five assists prior to leaving the game.
Zion Williamson just slammed a towel and walked to the locker room. Not sure what happened. Obviously, a massive moment in this game.
— Will Guillory (@WillGuillory) April 17, 2024
It’s not clear exactly what the issue was with Williamson, who was absolutely cooking for the Pelicans in this game. New Orleans was trailing by double digits for a big portion of this contest before a quick 9-0 run fueled by Williamson and Jose Alvarado brought the Pelicans back into the contest. Williamson’s departure from the game now looms large, especially if the Pelicans end up losing this contest.
With Williamson sidelined, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum are tasked with generating offense. Neither has been particularly good in this game but this is the crucial stretch where they need to perform. We’ll see if Williamson is able to return to the contest should it go to overtime.
