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Pelicans Enter Pivotal Homestand With Willie Green Under Scrutiny as Zion Lacks Timeline

Team decision-makers cite preseason evaluation plans plus Zion Williamson’s recovery timeline as the context for any coaching call.

Overview

  • The 2-8 Pelicans begin a five-game home stretch that includes the Lakers, Warriors, Thunder, and Nuggets after opening against Portland.
  • Sources describe Green’s seat as hot yet say leadership is weighing choices against an agreed evaluation window and persistent injury absences.
  • Green said Zion Williamson is progressing and took contact in one-on-one work, though no return date is set, and Jordan Poole remains out while progressing.
  • Internal mood is described as bleak by multiple sources, with some fearing front-office appetite for a broader reset under Joe Dumars.
  • Rookie lottery picks Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen and veteran Saddiq Bey have been early bright spots, while Poole struggled before his injury; some sources believe Green may not withstand the homestand without a win over Portland.