Kofi Inkoom
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports that Zion Williamson will miss Friday’s crucial Play-In Tournament elimination game against Sacramento due to a left hamstring injury. His condition will undergo further evaluation in around two weeks.
In the fourth quarter of the Pelicans’ play-in game versus the Lakers on Tuesday, Williamson exited the court due to discomfort in his left leg.
The Pelicans’ 110-106 loss to the Lakers intensifies the pressure on them to win on Friday to secure the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference playoffs.
Despite managing to tie the game with a crucial basket with 3:19 remaining, Williamson immediately felt pain in his leg after scoring and had to leave the game.
His frustration was evident as he slammed a towel onto the floor before heading to the locker room.
Williamson’s exceptional performance included scoring 40 points, securing 11 rebounds, and recording five assists in 36 minutes of play before his injury.
Injuries have been a recurring issue for Williamson throughout his career, despite appearing in a career-high 70 games this season and averaging 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. The Pelicans face a significant setback as they strive to secure a playoff spot.