Zion Williamson is set to make his much-anticipated return to the court for the New Orleans Pelicans as they face the Minnesota Timberwolves. After sitting out for 27 consecutive games due to a hamstring strain, Williamson’s presence is expected to provide a much-needed boost to a struggling Pelicans team.

This season has been particularly challenging for New Orleans, as they currently hold a dismal 7-29 record, placing them at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Injuries have plagued the roster, affecting key players including Brandon Ingram, Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, and Herbert Jones, all of whom have missed substantial time.

Since being drafted first overall in 2019, Williamson has faced ongoing injury issues. He has participated in only 190 of a possible 426 regular-season games, underlining his struggles with health. The current season marks a continuation of this trend, with Williamson having played in just six games thus far, including missing the entire 2021-22 season due to a foot injury.