New Orleans Receives Major Zion Williamson Injury Update

The New Orleans Pelicans avoided a major scare with Zion Williamson, who confirmed that the foot issue he suffered last week is not considered serious.

Williamson told The Athletic’s Will Guillory that he first felt the discomfort after his put-back dunk late in the Pelicans’ win over the San Antonio Spurs on October 24. The two-time All-Star said he expects to remain day-to-day.

“Right now, we’re day-to-day with it,” Williamson told Guillory. “Nothing major. Nothing that’s going to keep me out a long time.”

How the Injury Happened

Early in the fourth quarter of Friday’s game, Williamson leapt for an offensive rebound and threw down a thunderous put-back over Victor Wembanyama.

He finished with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists in 37 minutes before the Pelicans eventually fell in overtime to the Spurs, 120-116. 

The Pelicans ruled him out for his first missed game of the season against the Boston Celtics on October 27. Team officials described the injury as a left foot zone contusion rather than a new structural issue.

Pelicans Taking No Chances

Given Williamson’s history, even minor ailments spark concern in New Orleans. The 25-year-old has appeared in just 216 of a possible 495 regular-season games since being drafted No. 1 overall in 2019, missing significant time with knee, hamstring, and previous foot injuries.

This latest flare-up, however, appears far less severe. Head coach Willie Green said the team’s medical staff will monitor Williamson’s workload but expects him to rejoin practice soon. Williamson was seen running after practice on October 28. 

“It didn’t seem like it was too serious,” Green told reporters earlier this week. “But I’m not sure.”

Early-Season Form Before the Setback

Before tweaking the foot, Williamson had looked explosive through the first seven games of the season, averaging 27 points, 9.5 rebounds, and six assists on 46% shooting. He was one of the lone bright spots for the Pelicans, who are still searching for momentum this season. Williamson’s finishing at the rim and conditioning both drew praise after a focused offseason program.

Williamson had received praise in the preseason for coming into camp skinnier and appearing more healthy ahead of a critical juncture in his career. According to SpoTrac, Williamson stands to make a lot of money if he can stay on the court. 40% of 2026-27 salary becomes guaranteed if he plays in at least 41 games, another 20% becomes guaranteed if he plays at least 51 games, and another 20% if he plays in 61% of possible games. 

So not only is it in Williamson’s best interest to be on the court as much as possible, but it’s also in the Pelicans best interest as they try to climb out of an early-season hole. 

What’s Next

The Pelicans (0-3) open a three-game road trip, beginning on October 29 against the Denver Nuggets, followed by stops in Los Angeles and Oklahoma City. The team has not ruled out Williamson’s return during the trip but will make a final decision based on how his foot responds ahead of tipoff.

For now, the mood in New Orleans is one of relief, and excitement for what Williamson could still provide to the team this season. 

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