Pelicans’ Zion Williamson Ruled out vs. Paul George, Clippers with Leg Injury

Tyler Conway@@jtylerconwayFeatured Columnist IVJanuary 6, 2024

Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson will not return to Friday night’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers after suffering a right leg contusion, according to the Pelicans.

William left the game with 8:24 remaining in the third quarter. He had 12 points, 6 rebounds and 1 assist before exiting and was replaced by Dyson Daniels.

Injuries have been par for the course throughout Williamson’s career. The All-Star has played in more than 30 games just once in his career but has largely been healthy this season.

Williamson is averaging 22.1 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.7 assists, solid numbers but a little below expectation. He’s also taken criticism for his perceived lack of commitment to staying in shape after being gassed at times during the NBA’s In-Season Tournament.

“All I can do is control the things I can control. Lock in on myself. Lock in on my teammates, coaches, and everybody with the Pelicans,” Williamson told reporters of the criticism.

Naji Marshall stands to see the biggest uptick in minutes with Williamson out of the lineup.