Zion Williamson, the 25-year-old forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, will miss at least three weeks due to ongoing health concerns. The team said that Williamson will be re-evaluated in three weeks, capping a season where the All-Star’s year has been defined by injury adversity.
Williamson, the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, has not been able to stay on the floor over his brief career. He’s played in only 224 of the 493 potential games his time with the Pelicans. That leaves us with a participation rate of only ~ 45%. This season already, he has missed 11 games and now will likely miss an even longer stretch.
Statistically, Williamson’s performance this season has been a disappointment. He’s before 22.1 points and 5.6 rebounds on ten games played. Combined with his sky-high offensive net efficiency ratings, there should be trepidation about what he is bringing on the floor. When Williamson is not on the court, his net efficiency falls to -3.0. That’s evidence of a poorly performing team when it’s been this bad when he’s in the game. On the flip side, when he’s not on the court, it’s even more dire, posting a net efficiency of -13.9.
This season marks Williamson’s seventh year with the Pelicans, and while he has shown flashes of his potential, his repeated injuries have impeded his ability to contribute consistently. Everyone on the team wishes her a quick recovery. At the same time, supporters are creating a united front as they look towards the war ahead without their top gun.
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