Zion Williamson has yet to step foot on an NBA floor this season and with a new rumor coming out, we may be getting closer and closer to not seeing him at all.
According to NOLA.com's Christian Clark, Williamson may need another surgery after his foot, after the first one he got last off-season didn't heal properly. Williamson's surgery was on his right foot after he felt pain in his foot when ramping up workouts back in December.
Here is what Clark had to say in his report:
"Williamson was supposed to return to practice in December, but he began experiencing soreness in his right foot. That month, he flew to Los Angeles to have an injection to promote healing. It is possible he will need a second surgery on his right foot, sources said, but nothing has been decided."
Although other players across the league have faced similar struggles trying to bounce back from this type of injury, like new teammates Kevin Durant and Ben Simmons, Zion's weight, which has been a huge topic of discussion, could possibly play a part in his slow recovery.
Although he hasn't been available, when he is, he is as good as any player in the league. Zion is averaging 25.7 points, 7 rebounds and 3.2 assists a game over his career. Here is the statement Williamson released back in January.
“As you can imagine, this has been a very difficult process for me,” Williamson said in a statement released by the team. “I know there’s work to be done in my recovery before I can safely return to the court, but I will continue to put in the time necessary so I can get back on the floor with my team and represent Pelicans fans and the city of New Orleans at the highest level. Basketball means everything to me, and I am thankful for the Pelicans organization and everyone who has surrounded me with love and support throughout this journey – my family, friends, teammates, coaches, staff, fans, and everybody who has stood behind me and uplifted me when I needed it most.”
With the addition of CJ McCollum, the Pelicans are pushing towards the postseason as a play-in team and to set up a decent enough cast for when Zion eventually does return.
However, come next off-season, Zion becomes eligible for a max deal. So one may ask themselves, will the Pelicans give Williamson the deal he wants? Most around the league think yes, but with sitpulations. Some think they can ask for the same health and games played provisions that the Sixers had under Joel Embiid's rookie extension.
Follow Jasper Jones on Twitter: @jonesj2342
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