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Los Angeles (AFP) – New Orleans Pelicans winger Zion Williamson, operated on one foot this summer and who resumed collective training at the end of November, will have to wait a little longer before making his return to the NBA floors, announced Thursday his franchise.
The 21-year-old, who was drafted first in 2019 and whose big debut in the North American Basketball League was plagued by a right knee injury, had surgery in July and was aiming to return to the field in December.
But he was unable to train on Thursday after feeling pain in his foot.
“It’s part of the process,” Pelicans coach Willie Green told a few reporters, recalling his player’s fourth injury in two and a half years. “When you are prone to injury and increase the number of injuries, there is a risk of facing a slight pain, which is happening to her right now.”
Green added that Williamson would be subjected to low-intensity exercise before gradually resuming training. “I hope that the pains will disappear within a few days and that he can return to work,” he said.
According to him, Williamson is obviously “frustrated” by this setback. But “it’s more important to be patient,” Green said. “It’s about someone’s career. Whenever you have to deal with this aspect of professional sport it’s important to remember it. That’s how we see it.”
Last season, Williamson averaged 27 points and 7 rebounds per game and was selected for his first All-Star Game.
© 2021 AFP
