Zion Williamson Injury's Status For Pelicans vs Knicks

The New Orleans Pelicans listed Zion Williamson on the injury report against the New York Knicks

Feb 27, 2024; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) reacts after a three point shot against New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) during the first quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images / Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The New Orleans Pelicans return home after a disappointing road trip to face the New York Knicks. New Orleans has struggled mightily on the road this season, winning just one game away from the Smoothie King Center. Overall, the Pelicans are 5-23 on year, the worst record in the Western Conference.

A major reason for the Pelicans' struggles was their best players' lack of availability. That trend continues as the team released its injury report for Saturday, and star forward Zion Williamson remains out with a hamstring injury.

Daniel Theis questionable, 4 Pelicans out for game against Knicks#Pelicans | @MorrisBartLLC https://t.co/fESPd9ZcOS

— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) December 20, 2024

Williamson has appeared in six games this season, averaging 22.7 points, eight rebounds, and 5.3 assists. He is shooting a career-low 45.2% from the field. Many hoped he could build upon his success last season when he appeared in 70 games, a career-high. However, another injury-plagued year has people questioning his future in New Orleans.

Zion signed a five-year extension in 2022, with the contract stipulating Williamson maintain a certain weight for incentivization. The contract also contained language he needed to meet specific game availability requirements for guaranteed money. If he didn't, much of his contract would be non-guaranteed. New Orleans could then theoretically release him without a significant financial hit.

A recent report suggested Williamson could be moved soon, with the Pelicans' abysmal start having them looking at the future. New Orleans is reportedly open to exploring trade talks with everyone on the team except Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Yves Missi. What value Williamson has in the open market, given his injury history, remains to be seen.

Tip-Off for Saturday's game is set for 7:00 p.m.

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