The New Orleans Pelicans have been hit with a major blow as both Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum are set to miss the remainder of the 2024-25 NBA season due to injuries. Williamson, the former No. 1 overall pick, continues to struggle with injury setbacks, playing fewer than 30 games for the fourth time in six years. Despite his impressive stats when healthy, totaling 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game this season, the Pelicans will have to adjust without his presence on the court. On the other hand, McCollum, who was acquired mid-season in a trade, will also be sidelined following a stellar 40-point performance that ended in injury.
The Pelicans' season has been marked by a string of injuries to key players, including Williamson, McCollum, Trey Murphy III, Dejounte Murray, and Herbert Jones. With the team currently holding the fourth-worst record in the league at 21-54, the absence of their top scorers poses a challenge as they navigate through a season marred by lineup changes and adjustments due to injuries. Despite the setbacks, the Pelicans will look to regroup and finish the season strong as they aim to build towards a brighter future with their injured stars on the road to recovery.