THE New Orleans Pelicans are in poor form, as they misplaced six rotation gamers to damage, together with the start line guard Dejounte Murray (damaged hand) and star Zion Williamson (hamstring pressure). Whereas many of those gamers are anticipated to return to the group in a couple of weeks, Williamson is out indefinitely, casting doubt on his availability for the rest of the season. For instance, ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins even steered a brand new nickname – “pajamas” – for Zion Williamson on account of his fixed damage points and lack of availability for the group.
“We should start to name Zion [Williamson] “Pyjamas” as a result of he is simply as unhealthy… When you’ve got championship aspirations, Zion cannot be the face of your group, he cannot be your number one as a result of he is by no means obtainable.” Perkins stated on ESPN, through a clip shared by ClutchPoints on X, previously Twitter.
Pelicans star’s damage luck
In line with the identical Kendrick Perkins “pajama” phase, Zion Williamson’s damage issues brought on him to overlook extra video games (211) than he performed (190) with the Pelicans, who drafted him No. 1 general in 2019.
Whereas Zion’s accidents have damage the Pels’ playoff probabilities lately, analysts blaming gamers for his or her accidents, no matter their frequency, appears greater than a little bit unfair. It isn’t like Zion wished to harm his hamstring.
Moreover, Perkins referenced the identical scenario with Anthony Davis, who followers have known as “avenue garments” for his accidents over the previous few seasons. Final season, nonetheless, AD performed in 76 video games, essentially the most since his years with the Pelicans, and even anchored Workforce USA on the Paris Olympics.
A a nagging foot damage brought on Davis lacking one recreation thus far this season, and followers are hoping that does not hassle him an excessive amount of, provided that the Lakers’ playoff hopes relaxation nearly solely on his shoulders.
The identical is true for Zion. His teammates recovering from damage ought to assist them get some wins collectively, however they would not do a lot within the playoffs, in the event that they even qualify.
Different star gamers have additionally been injured this season, resembling Kawhi Leonard misses all Clippers video games This yr. Likewise, Joel Embiid has simply returned from damage throughout the 76ers’ loss to the Knicks within the NBA Cup.
Well being issues
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Earlier this season, Embiid brought on a stir on account of his feedback about taking part in back-to-backs, and it seems the group determined to take a seat him (together with Paul George) towards the Cavaliers on Wednesday.
Load administration is one factor, however sitting two of your stars when your group is within the Jap Convention cellar, with a 2-8 document, is one other factor solely.
Nonetheless, it is ironic that the Pelicans’ key gamers proceed to endure accidents, however the participant they reportedly need to commerce – Brandon Ingram – has performed each recreation this yr, particularly given his personal damage historical past.
Agree with Massive Perk or not, one thing has to provide with Zion, and the Pelicans should determine how they need to hold him wholesome, given his contract will make them work all through the 2027-2028 season.
