New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) reacts with head coach Willie Green on a time out in the first half against the Los Angeles Lakers during a play-in game of the 2024 NBA playoffs against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports

Zion Williamson leaves Pelicans’ play-in game with leg soreness

Originally posted on Hoops Rumors | By Dana Gauruder | Last updated 4/16/24

Zion Williamson left the Pelicans’ play-in game against the Lakers during the fourth quarter on Tuesday with what coach Willie Green described as “left leg soreness,” ESPN’s Andrew Lopez tweets. Williamson will undergo an MRI on Wednesday.

The Pelicans lost to the Lakers 110-106 and will need to win on Friday to grab the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

Williamson made a tying basket with 3:19 remaining with a drive into the lane. However, he felt pain in his leg immediately after scoring and had to be removed after that play. He went to the bench briefly, then slammed a towel onto the floor while retreating to the locker room.

Williamson played arguably the best game of his career, pouring in 40 points, grabbing 11 rebounds and dishing five assists in 36 minutes.

Williamson, whose career has been marred by injuries, appeared in a career-high 70 games this season. He averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.0 assists.

This article first appeared on Hoops Rumors and was syndicated with permission.

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