Zion Williamson Poised for Support as Pelicans’ Injury Troubles Begin to Fade
The New Orleans Pelicans are finally catching a glimpse of hope amidst a rocky start to their season. After suffering back-to-back losses, the team has been plagued by injuries to key players. However, a recent development from Sunday’s practice suggests relief could be on the horizon.
Injury Concerns Plaguing the Pelicans
The Pelicans faced a tough challenge last Friday, falling 120-116 in an overtime battle against the San Antonio Spurs. Five players were sidelined due to injuries, significantly impacting the team’s performance. The center position, in particular, has taken a hit, with the absence of Yves Missi and Kevin Looney, who is expected to miss two to three weeks due to a ligament sprain in his knee. DeAndre Jordan is also listed as day-to-day, further complicating the team’s depth.
Positive Signs from Practice
Despite these setbacks, the atmosphere at practice on Sunday was notably more optimistic. Both Yves Missi and Karlo Matković participated fully, signaling their potential return to the lineup in the near future. This news is encouraging for the Pelicans, who are in dire need of reinforcements to turn their season around.
Missi’s Impact on the Court
The return of Missi would be especially significant. The young center had a promising rookie season, showcasing his skills and forming a strong partnership with Zion Williamson. When healthy, Missi provides not only defensive support but also valuable inside scoring, making him an essential part of the Pelicans’ strategy. In his lone appearance this season, he managed to contribute five points, seven rebounds, one block, and one steal in just 23 minutes—demonstrating the potential he brings to the court.
Building Back the Roster
As the Pelicans look to bounce back from their slow start, the prospect of getting both Missi and Matković back in the lineup offers a much-needed boost. Head coach Willie Green acknowledged the improvements in their recovery, stating, “Looks like both of them are progressing toward a return to the lineup relatively soon.”
For Zion Williamson, the anticipated return of Missi could provide much-needed support as he navigates through defensive matchups and strives to elevate the team’s performance moving forward. The Pelicans are hoping this wave of positive news translates into on-court success as they aim to regain their footing in the early stages of the season.
