Is Zion Williamson playing tonight? Pelicans star a game-time decision vs Utah Jazz

New Orleans Pelicans and Utah Jazz will open NBA restart at Orlando Bubble On Thursday (Friday IST). However, Pelicans' star rookie Zion Williamson might t play season opener. Williamson was among multiple NBA players who left bubble due to a family emergency and was placed in a four-day re-quarantine after his return. 

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Zion Williamson injury update: Is Zion Williamson playing tonight?

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As per Pelicans head coach Alvin Gentry, 2019 NBA Draft overall . 1 pick will be a game-time decision for opening game. He added that medical team will take a final call about Williamson's status, who was away for 12 days because of his family emergency and was quarantined for four days upon returning. Gentry furr explained that as a coach, he wants Willaimson to play, but kws re are guys who are "better equipped to make those decisions" from a "health standpoint and minutes played standpoint". As per Gentry, it will be a decision that will be taken collectively.

Willaimson spoke to reporters on Wednesday after returning to NBA campus. He said he wants to play, but kws risks at hand. "I think me and my team are gonna look at what's best for me, my future, and being safe," Williamson said. "If you kw me, I wanna hoop. That's just how I am; I'm never gonna change. I'm gonna want to hoop, simple as that."

He denied talking about his family emergency, only informing that he discussed with his parents and family about leaving bubble. After he returned, he was in quarantine in a hotel room, while he tried to get ready to play. When away, Williamson was dealing with an emergency and could t really work out. As he was away for some time, he and Pelicans are approaching situation cautiously. 20-year-old is aware that one cant jump back into game, and is working on what is best for him. 

Though he sat out 5-on-5 drills with team on Tuesday, he says his body is w feeling fine. Pelicans forward Derrick Favors, who took time off after his mor passed away, says that team understands family comes first, and people need time before rejoining. Favors also admitted that if Williamson does t play, he might t look like rookie who took season by storm after his debut. Williamson debuted in January 2020 after sitting out entire season due to a back injury. Williamson was averaging 23.6 points before season was suspended, and is probably most highly-anticipated rookie since LeBron James in 2003. 

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(Im source: New Orleans Pelicans official Twitter)