ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports that New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson has been ruled out for Friday’s play-in game against the Sacramento Kings. Zion had to leave Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers after straining his hamstring.
ESPN Sources: Pelicans F Zion Williamson’s (left hamstring) is out for Friday’s Play-In Tournament elimination game vs. Sacramento and will be evaluated again in coming weeks. Huge blow for New Orleans. pic.twitter.com/rMc1IC2RtY
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 17, 2024
First things first, we never want to celebrate an injury. I would much rather have advanced to the playoffs by beating a full-strength Pelicans team. Zion is a thrilling player to watch, and it’s a shame to see him suffer another injury set back. We’ll hope this isn’t a serious injury, and wish Zion a speedy recovery.
While we won’t celebrate an injury, this is obviously a big opportunity for the Kings. Zion would have been a matchup nightmare for Sacramento. In their last matchup on April 11th, Zion scored 31 points, tying CJ McCollum for the team-high. Even without Zion, though, the Pelicans are a tough matchup for the Kings, having won all 5 contests this season.
The Kings and Pelicans play Friday at 6:30 PM PT, on TNT.
