Zion Williamson Injury: Pelicans coach Willie Green reveals reason behind star forward’s exit 

According to head coach Willie Green, Zion Williamson, the All-Star forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, was unable to play in the last seven minutes of their 117-108 defeat against the Orlando Magic at home on Wednesday due to a finger injury.

The 23-year-old former top draft pick (2019) was forced to briefly leave the game after a collision with Magic guard Gary Harris, but he did make a return to the court.

It was not verified, though, whether the crash was connected to the finger injury that caused Williamson to miss part of the game.

According to Andrew Lopez, ESPN’s NBA reporter, on the platform formerly known as Twitter, X:

“Willie Green says Zion left the game because of a finger injury. Said team would have an update soon.”

According to a subsequent report from The Athletic’s Will Guillory, it was revealed that Williamson injured his left hand’s middle finger while attempting a block and hitting the backboard.

Williamson played for 29 minutes before exiting the game, during which he scored 15 points, had five assists, two rebounds, and two steals, and also made a block.

Despite their 45-31 record, the Pelicans have now suffered their third consecutive loss. As the regular season comes to a close, their chances of securing a top six finish and a guaranteed playoff spot have significantly dwindled.

Currently, New Orleans is in a precarious position at sixth place, narrowly leading the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns by only half a game. Both teams hold identical records of 44-31.

Should Zion Williamson be unable to play due to his injury, it will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the Pelicans, especially considering that Brandon Ingram is currently sidelined with a knee injury.

Zion Williamson earns praise from teammate Willie Green

Despite getting injured during their game against the Orlando Magic, Zion Williamson had been consistently leading the New Orleans Pelicans, which greatly impressed his coach Willie Green.

Despite All-Star Brandon Ingram being sidelined due to a knee injury, Williamson stepped up and took on the responsibility of leading the Pelicans in their pursuit of a playoff spot.

Despite the team’s struggles, the former Duke player had consistently been delivering from his end.

According to Bleacher Report, Green discussed Williamson’s performance.

“Zion has been amazing. Night in and night out, he is putting the team on his shoulders, and he’s carrying us. He’s guarding. He’s rebounding. He’s making simple plays to his teammates. The guys are rallying around him. ..”

In his last five games, Williamson has been on a roll, with an average of 29.6 points per game.

Williamson has started in all 64 games this season and has maintained an impressive average of 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1 steal per game.