Zion Williamson made his much-anticipated return to the court on February 3, 2025, against the Denver Nuggets, but the New Orleans Pelicans faced yet another tough defeat, losing 125-113 at the Ball Arena.
Williamson, who had missed 27 games earlier this season, contributed with 14 points and 5 assists, leading the team in assists and blocks during the game. His performance came over 28 minutes of playing time, exceeding projections not only for points but also for assists and total playing time, marking his determination to re-establish himself after multiple injury setbacks.
Despite Williamson's individual efforts, the Pelicans were unable to overcome their losing streak, which has now extended to six consecutive games, dropping their record to 12-38. Trey Murphy III shone brightly for the Pelicans, tying his career-high with 41 points, and C.J. McCollum also had a stellar night with 30 points. Williamson was the only other Pelican to score more than ten points, underscoring the challenges the team has faced offensively.
The game started unfavorably for the home team, with the Pelicans trailing 68-50 at halftime. Williamson was limited to five points during the first half and managed only nine more after the break, as the Nuggets maintained their lead effectively throughout the game.
On the other end, the Nuggets showcased their might with Michael Porter leading the way with 36 points, supported by reigning NBA MVP Nikola Jokic, who recorded another triple-double with 27 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists.
A key aspect of Williamson's return is the Pelicans' cautious strategy surrounding his health and playing time. Due to his history of injuries, the team has been prudent, opting to restrict him from playing back-to-back games and placing limits on his minutes. Reflecting on this strategy, Williamson stated, "Physically, yes I can. But I work for the Pelicans. They have decided based off the numbers, it’s not smart to do it right now." This approach has raised questions about his full capacity to contribute, especially as he averages 23.6 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists when he plays, clearly demonstrating his value on the court.
Williamson's commitment to returning strong is evident as he paid tribute to his team's struggles, recognizing the need for improvement. "It's about coming back and helping my team find some rhythm," he added after the match.
The Pelicans' situation could point toward the potential for significant changes as the season progresses, particularly as the NBA trade deadline approaches. With Williamson now back, the focus will be on whether the team can turn around their season and find ways to integrate their assets effectively.
Looking forward, the Pelicans hope to capitalize on any momentum from Williamson’s performance, though they will need to overcome hurdles to shift the narrative around their season. Despite the loss to the Nuggets, the prospect of having their star player—who had previously missed 36 of the 50 games this season—returns is seen as pivotal for the franchise as they aim to finish the season on a stronger note.