The New Orleans Pelicans have released their latest update on the progress of Zion Williamson as he tries to return to the court after offseason foot surgery.
“After experiencing persistent soreness in his right foot, Zion Williamson underwent medical imaging which showed a regression in the bone healing of his fifth metatarsal. As a result, the volume and intensity of his training will be reduced for an extended period to help allow for further bone healing. Additional updates will be provided as warranted.”
In his brief NBA career, Williamson has played in 85 games and missed 87 since becoming the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
Over those 85 games, Zion has averaged 25.7 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.2 assists while shooting 60.4% from the floor.
Williamson suffered the injury to his right foot this past offseason which required surgery.
After initial reports suggested that the 21-year old forward would be back by the start of the 2021-22 season, Williamson has been faced with multiple delays on the road to recovery.
Dating back to his high school career, Zion has dealt with a number of injuries.
Date | Injury | Time Missed |
Summer 2021 | Broken right foot | 28 games |
May 2021 | Fractured left ring finger | 6 games |
Aug. 2020 | Right hamstring | 3 games |
Oct. 2019 | Torn right meniscus | 44 games |
July 2019 | Left knee bruise | 3 games |
Feb. 2019 | Grade 1 right knee sprain | 3 weeks |
Dec. 2017 | Deep foot bruise | 2 months |
Apr. 2017 | Deep knee bruise |
When Williamson plays, the Pelicans are 40-45 (.470). Without him in the lineup, New Orleans is 29-58 (.333).