Pelicans rookie Zion (knee) completes first full practice

The New Orleans Pelicans’ first overall pick Zion Williamson has returned to full practice.

(Source WWLTV)

The anticipated rookie has been sidelined since October with his surgery to repair a torn right lateral meniscus in his right knee. The first report fans got was that Williamson would be out six-to-eight weeks but that timetable came and went along with rumors of him relearning how to walk and run. Now with the Pelicans on a four-game winning streak, they get to see their first draft pick practice with the team.

Zion when speaking about practice said it was, “a great experience”, and that he was happy to be back out there with his team. “If it was up to me, I would have been out there two weeks ago,” said Williamson.

Head coach Alvin Gentry didn’t give a return date but urged fans to remain patient as Zion would not be rushed back to help the team. However, both sides are optimistic about a return this month. Despite the bad start, the Pelicans are only four games behind the eighth-seeded San Antonio Spurs early in the season. Former Lakers Brandon Ingram is having a career year and Lonzo Ball is coming off the heels of his best game yet with the team.

In just four preseason games, Williamson averaged 23.3 points on 71.4 percent shooting, along with 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in only 27.2 minutes. Zion could be a much-needed boost for this team if it wants to sneak into the playoffs this year but Pelicans will remain careful with the rookie sensation.