A never-ending issue continues to rob NBA fans of a talent that cannot seem to be consistently available.
Zion Williamson was in the conversation with LeBron James as a once in a lifetime, generational talent when he entered the National Basketball Association from Duke University in the 2019 draft. The 6-foot-6, 284-pounder was a human highlight reel during one year in college — making Duke must-see television when he was on the screen. He accomplished several awards in college and has been a two-time NBA All-Star; however, injuries have robbed us of seeing what Williamson can truly become.
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Williamson is averaging 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and a block per game.
He is shooting 56.7 percent from the field, yet an injury will sideline him for a fourth straight season. According to Shams Charania, a senior NBA insider for ESPN, the New Orleans Pelicans decided to shut Williamson down for the rest of the year because of a backbone contusion. The 24-year-old has dealt with injuries since his rookie season ranging from a meniscus (knee) tear to a Jones fracture in his right foot. He had a nagging hamstrings injury in the 2022-23 season and his 2023-24 postseason debut was cut short because of an injury. Williamson has all the hype and potential, but when will it all come together?
The New Orleans Pelicans have shut down Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum for rest of the season due to injuries.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 31, 2025
Zion Williamson (back bone contusion) and CJ McCollum (foot contusion) will miss the rest of the season pic.twitter.com/Aw3AMiQ4XE
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 31, 2025
This is the thought all New Orleans’ fans and NBA supporters alike have.
The Pelicans are eliminated from playoff contention, but Williamson’s future with the team is the most important aspect.
Stephen M. Smith is a writer for Ball Exclusives. You can follow him him X via @CoachingMSmith.
