Injured Pelicans Star Williamson Causes Controversy By Dunking Before Missing Play-In Game

Zion Williamson did not play in the New Orleans Pelicans' play-in tournament matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder due to injury.
The lack of stability and cohesion due to injuries made it difficult for the Pelicans to duplicate last season's success.
Zion Williamson's stepfather is reportedly causing tension with the Pelicans' front office over Williamson's injury struggles and return to play.
Zion Williamson was not available for a must-win matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA play-in tournament but threw down a windmill dunk during his warmup before the game, raising questions about the severity of his injury.
Pelicans executive VP clarifies that Zion Williamson was not cleared to play 5-on-5 basketball due to his injury but Williamson conducted on-court work during pregame warmups, adding to controversy.