Overview
- The New Orleans Pelicans announced that Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum will miss the final seven games of the 2024-25 NBA season due to injuries.
- Williamson sustained a low back bone contusion on March 19, while McCollum suffered a right foot bone contusion on March 23, ending their seasons prematurely.
- The Pelicans currently hold a 21-54 record, the fourth-worst in the league, and are eliminated from playoff contention.
- Zion Williamson averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in 30 games this season but continues to face questions about his long-term durability.
- The decision to shut down their top players aligns with a potential strategy to improve their draft positioning for the 2025 NBA Draft.