The Cleveland Cavaliers have emerged as a title contender following their home victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder, solidifying their spot at the top with wins against both Boston and Oklahoma City. With the best record in the league, they have home-court advantage but must prove their mettle in the playoffs.

Meanwhile, coaching positions are in jeopardy for several teams. Willie Green of the New Orleans Pelicans faces challenges due to significant injuries among star players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, impacting the team's performance. Chauncey Billups continues to struggle with the Portland Trail Blazers, holding a poor record amid a rebuild after trading key players. Darko Rajakovic’s Toronto Raptors are also in a tough spot, with their lack of competitiveness raising questions about his future.

Teams like the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns are grappling with inconsistency. The Warriors, despite a strong start, are struggling to maintain their status as contenders, largely relying on a 36-year-old Stephen Curry. The Suns, led by aging stars Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, haven’t kept pace after an impressive beginning to their season. Lastly, the Philadelphia 76ers may face playoff elimination unless their stars, including Joel Embiid and Paul George, can return to form.

The New Orleans Pelicans have suspended power forward Zion Williamson for a single game due to multiple violations of team policies, particularly tardiness to practices and flights. Coach Willie Green confirmed the decision was influenced by several incidents leading up to the suspension before the team's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Williamson, who has struggled with injuries since being drafted first overall in 2019, has only played in seven of the Pelicans' 38 games this season, contributing to a poor 2-5 record in those appearances. In a public statement, he took full responsibility for his actions and apologized to team owner Gayle Benson and the organization as a whole.

Zion Williamson has been suspended for one game, missing the New Orleans Pelicans' game against the Philadelphia 76ers due to a violation of team policies. The suspension follows reports that Williamson was late for a crucial team flight, with additional concerns about his tardiness at practices this season.

Pelicans coach Willie Green confirmed that multiple incidents contributed to the decision. Executive vice president David Griffin emphasized Williamson's importance to the team, stating that he has taken accountability and is committed to improving.

New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson is set to return to the court Tuesday evening against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Coach Willie Green hinted at this development, suggesting a potential comeback for the All-Star forward, who has been sidelined since November 6 due to a strained left hamstring. Despite recent wins, the Pelicans are struggling at 7-29, sitting last in the Western Conference.

Williamson's return, alongside Jose Alvarado and Dejounte Murray, raises hopes for the team's performance, even as Brandon Ingram remains out with an ankle injury. His presence not only aims to boost the struggling Pelicans but also allows observations of potential trade dynamics as the February 6 deadline approaches.

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson may make his return to the court this week after a two-month recovery from a hamstring injury, according to head coach Willie Green. Williamson participated in 5-on-5 practice, indicating progress in his rehabilitation. The Pelicans' upcoming schedule includes matches against the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Portland Trail Blazers at home, followed by away games against the Philadelphia 76ers and the Boston Celtics.

Throughout the season, Williamson has shown exceptional talent, averaging 22.7 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in just six games. However, injuries have plagued his career, limiting his appearances in previous seasons. The team remains hopeful for his return as they continue to struggle with injuries to several key players, including Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum.