Pelicans’ Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum Out for Remainder of the Season

Marked by numerous injuries, the New Orleans Pelicans ‘ tragic NBA season lost two more names this Monday (1). Thus, the franchise chose to veto the participation of Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum in the remaining matches. The information is from Shams Charania , from American ESPN, who stated that the duo will also be absent due to injuries.

Currently in second-to-last place in the Western Conference, the Pelicans have 54 losses and only 21 wins. So, with no chance of qualifying even for the Play-in tournament, they will have only one of their starters (Yves Missi) over the last seven games. Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III have been out of action since February 26 and March 18, respectively. Both suffered right shoulder injuries.

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Zion, in turn, had another frustrating campaign in terms of physical problems. After participating in five of the first six games, the power forward missed the next 30 due to a muscle injury. He then returned very well from the injury, putting in excellent performances and playing in 23 of the last 33 matches. However, he has been injured again and, now with back pain, will end the season having played only 30 matches.

Without Zion and 3 other starters, Pelicans expect high draft pick

In the end, the Pelicans’ season may end with a better taste than expected. This is because, in addition to having found in Missi their likely starting center for the next few years, the team saw Zion Williamson perform at an excellent level in the games he was present in.

In addition, the Louisiana franchise has the fourth-worst record in the entire league, and controls its own pick in the 2025 Draft. In a highly rated prospect class, the Pelicans have a good chance of finding another promising young talent in the selection.

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