Uncertainty Surrounds Zion Williamson's Return As Pelicans Keep Close Eye On Progress

Photo: Instagram/Zion Williamson 

The return date of New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is still uncertain as he continues his rehabilitation and conditioning regimen following a right hamstring strain that has kept him out of action since January 2.

Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin announced on Thursday that they will monitor Williamson's progression and provide updates as needed.

Despite his injury, Williamson was named an All-Star starter, but he was unable to play in the game. He re-injured the hamstring in early February and has been rehabbing ever since.

Photo: Instagram/Zion Williamson 

When Williamson was hurt, the Pelicans were in third place in the Western Conference with a 23-14 record.

However, the team struggled in his absence, slipping down the West standings and bottoming out at 33-37.

The Pelicans have since won eight of their last ten games and are in the middle of the Western Conference play-in race.

Williamson has played in 29 games this season, averaging 26 points and seven rebounds while shooting 60.8% from the field.

The announcement did leave open the possibility of Williamson returning if the Pelicans make the playoffs.

Currently, at 41-39, the Pelicans can finish no worse than the No. 9 seed and will have a chance to make the playoffs through the play-in tournament, like they did last season.

Currently, the Pelicans are tied for seventh with the Los Angeles Lakers and are a game behind the LA Clippers and Golden State Warriors, who both have a 42-38 record.

The Pelicans' success in making the playoffs may depend on the strong play of Brandon Ingram, who has stepped up in Williamson's absence.

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Source: ESPN