Zion Williamson, who missed Sunday’s game due to an ankle injury, confirmed he expects to play in Tuesday’s matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. The New Orleans Pelicans forward suffered the injury in a recent win over the Utah Jazz, breaking a streak of 35 consecutive games played.
Since being selected first overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, Williamson’s scoring talent has been widely recognized, but his availability has often been questioned due to recurring injuries. Ahead of the Lakers game, he openly addressed his readiness.
“I expect to be back tomorrow against the Lakers,”
Williamson stated on NBA Today.
Injury History and Recent Playing Streak Insights
Williamson’s absence on Sunday coincided with a 137-117 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, ending his stretch of games without a miss since December 11. During that 35-game period, the Pelicans recorded a 14-21 record, reflecting their ongoing struggle to secure playoff positioning. Currently, New Orleans remains 13 games behind the eighth seed in the Western Conference.
Despite these challenges, Williamson’s projected return against the Lakers could signal a turning point as the Pelicans seek to kick off a new winning streak. The upcoming game marks the beginning of a demanding three-game road series, which will continue with matches against the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns—teams against which Williamson has averaged at least 24.5 points over 34 games.
Pelicans’ Supporting Cast Offers Hope Amid Playoff Challenges
Though the Pelicans’ playoff chances seem slim, recent performances from key teammates suggest optimism. Small forward Trey Murphy III leads the team in scoring with an average of 22 points per game, showcasing strong efficiency by shooting 47.5% from the field and 37.8% beyond the arc. Murphy also contributes significantly with a favorable two-to-one assist-to-turnover ratio while logging the most minutes on the team.
Rookie center Derik Queen is emerging as a valuable interior presence, averaging 13 points, 7.3 rebounds, and nearly 4 assists per game. Likewise, point guard Jeremiah Fears, a member of New Orleans’ 2025 draft class, has started multiple games, fueling hope that the young core—comprising Queen, Murphy, Fears, and Williamson—can develop into a competitive nucleus.
Future Outlook for the Pelicans’ Roster and Contract Situation
The Pelicans face roster-building decisions, aiming to surround Williamson with a stronger supporting cast in upcoming seasons. Though they lack a first-round draft pick this year, the team retains its young core under contract. Additionally, expiring contracts of veterans Kevon Looney and DeAndre Jordan are expected to free over $11 million in salary cap space, providing flexibility for acquisitions through free agency or trades.
Williamson’s durability remains a topic of debate among analysts and critics. While he has appeared in 259 games, he has missed 296 contests due to injuries since entering the league. Currently in the third year of a five-year contract, Williamson is set to earn over $80 million in the next two seasons, reinforcing the Pelicans’ need to optimize his availability for team success.
Significance of Williamson’s Return and Upcoming Opportunities
Williamson’s anticipated return against the Lakers could mark a crucial step for both his career and the Pelicans’ playoff ambitions. The intense three-game road stretch immediately following provides a platform for Williamson and New Orleans to demonstrate resilience and build momentum. Success in these pivotal games could help reshape the Pelicans’ trajectory as they aim to break their playoff drought, which has persisted since the 2023-24 season.
"I expect to be back tomorrow against the Lakers"
— Zion Williamson on his return to play pic.twitter.com/HsNkwmeONl
— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) March 2, 2026
