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New Orleans Pelicans fans might have to wait a little bit longer than initially expected to see the No.1 pick of the 2019 NBA Draft, Zion Williamson, in action. The forward from Duke tore his right meniscus during the preseason and had to undergo arthroscopic surgery for the same.
It was originally reported that the injury would keep him out for six to eight weeks. However, six weeks have already passed since Zion's surgery and as per Andrew Lopez of the ESPN, the Pelicans management seems to be overly cautious with their star rookie who is yet to start on-court activities.
Zion's spectacular preseason
While he missed almost the entirety of the NBA Summer League with another knee issue, the world got to see a bit of Zion Williamson's prowess in the preseason where he averaged 23.3 points per game, a record for rookies. Since preseason stats were made available in 2005, no other rookie has managed to average even 20. He even had a 29-point game where he dominated the Chicago Bulls, shooting 12-of-13 from the field.
What's next for the Pelicans?
Alvin Gentry's side has simply flattered to deceive so far this season. Occupying the 14th seed in the Western Conference, the Pelicans currently have a 6-14 record and will be facing the high-flying Dallas Mavericks in their next game.
Brandon Ingram has averaged career-highs across multiple categories but the Pels have simply failed to mesh together as a group. Zion Williamson's presence will certainly help New Orleans on both ends of the floor. However, given just how protective the franchise has been of the rookie, it is seeming highly likely that the 2019 National College Player of the Year won't be making his competitive NBA debut until next year.
Also read: Dallas Mavericks vs New Orleans Pelicans - Match Preview and Predictions (3rd December 2019)
