The Smoothie King Center saw 2 of the best New Orleans players battle tonight. Anthony Davis, who still holds the franchise’s scoring record, faced a Zion Williamson-led squad. However, LeBron James‘ presence and timely picking on Pelicans’ “generational talent” crafted an alternate storyline. Williamson, after all the criticism from the Pelicans’ continued losing record against the Lakers, bullied the purple and gold for a 40-point performance. However, just when it looked like he could bring the game home, he landed awkwardly after attempting a floater over AD.

The 23-year-old was immediately taken to the locker room. The remaining 3 minutes on the clock were enough for the Lakers to clinch a 110-106 win and a playoff spot. Now, as just a day’s gap creates a sense of urgency around Zion’s status, good news comes through the arena. Luckily, Zion Williamson was seen exiting the building with no limp in his steps. Moreover, there were no signs of a wrap or bandage on his leg.

Will Guillory, after the game, shared that Zion suffered through a lower leg soreness, with no set timeline of a possible return. However, the coach claims that Williamson is still under examination, with an imaging session outlined for Wednesday.

If Zion is cleared to play, he will still have some time to join the team for practice. However, if not, it could be possible that the Pelicans will have to gamble on their season-long progress without their superstar. Moreover, another slim situation arises if Zion’s update is slated for game time, as the 6’6 wing, in that case, won’t be partaking in scrimmages before the crucial game. The Pelicans play a tough Sacramento squad on April 19.

Zion Williamson and the Pelicans’ record vs. the Kings

The New Orleans Pelicans have dominated the Kings’ squad in all their 5 regular season games. With their first matchup on November 20 and the last on April 11, the teams are well-versed in their ongoing forms and potential scouting.

Zion Williamson posts 23 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.5 rebounds against the Kings this season (4 games). However, his impact is far from being the most impactful in the matchup. Brandon Ingram averages nearly 25 points against Sacramento, with a field goal efficiency of over 50%. Moreover, CJ McCollum put up a back-to-back 30-point game in the Pelicans’ April matchups against the Kings (59% shooting).

Trending

Bronny in Deep Waters as $800,000 Suffering Forces LeBron James’ Son to End College Career With Major Declining Numbers

April 27, 2024 01:45 PM EDT

Bronny’s Suffering Doesn’t Affect Brother Bryce as LeBron James’ Younger Son Sees Stability Financially

April 28, 2024 02:24 PM EDT

LeBron James Raids Wife Savannah’s Wardrobe For Game 4 Win, Leaving 35YO Stylist “Weak”

April 28, 2024 07:16 PM EDT

Nike EYBL: Emotional Kiyan Anthony Talks About Father Carmelo While Bryce James Hails 17YO Brodie

April 28, 2024 04:08 PM EDT

“That Was Too Much”: LeBron Gave Bryce James a Tough Pill to Swallow 1 Week Before His Nike EYBL Game

April 29, 2024 02:32 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

With that, the Pelicans have a better shooting record over the young and blazing Kings. Additionally, behind Jonas Valanciunas’ 5 double-doubles in the faceoffs, the Pelicans out-rebound the Kings heavily (47.2 per game to the Kings’ 33.8).

Who do you think occupies the last seat in the playoffs? Let us know in the comments below.