While the world debates his weight, Zion Williamson’s foot is the barrier that is not allowing him to return to the court.
The Pelicans star’s right foot, which was surgically repaired this summer, is still not healing correctly, and Williamson will be out indefinitely.
Williamson has been experiencing “persistent soreness” in his foot, the Pelicans said, and an X-ray showed a regression in the bone healing.
“As a result, the volume and intensity of his training will be reduced for an extended period to help allow for further bone healing,” the team said in a statement.
The Pelicans announced two weeks ago Williamson had been cleared to participate in full team activities, but shortly afterward he felt soreness that did not allow him to progress to five-on-five.
It is unclear how much he has been able to do in practice and in workouts, but he now will be shut down.
Zion Williams will be shut down from basketball activity with his foot still sore after surgery. APWilliamson has missed 28 games thus far — 20 of which have been losses in a disastrous season all around for New Orleans — and there is wonder whether his third NBA season will ever get started.
After Williamson’s offseason surgery, pictures have arisen recently that appear to show he is heavier than when he last played. Plenty of players — particularly coming off injuries that do not allow them to do much cardio — gain weight and then play their way back into shape, but Williamson has not looked close to being game ready.
