Zion returns for Pelicans in win against Blazers
PORTLAND, Ore. — New Orleans forward Zion Williamson was in the lineup for Friday night’s 105-103 win against the Portland Trail Blazers after missing the Pelicans’ opener.
Williamson, who averaged 22.9 points last season, was scratched from the team’s game Wednesday night against the Chicago Bulls because of an unspecified illness.
“It’s huge to get Z back,” Pelicans coach Willie Green said before facing the Blazers. “He’s excited. Our group is excited to get on the floor tonight and get after it.”
Williamson had 16 points, 11 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 blocks in the victory.
Green said Williamson was on a minutes restriction. He ended up playing 29 minutes.
“It won’t be full throttle, but we’ll see how he feels once he gets on the floor,” Green had said.
The 6-foot-6 Williamson, the first overall selection out of Duke in the 2019 NBA draft, played in a career-high 70 games last season. Because of injuries, he has missed 207 career games.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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