NBA Rumors: Are Pelicans Ready To Move On From Injury-Plagued Former Top Pick?

The NBA is now at the All-Star Weekend point and several players remain indisposed. Among the notable young players who most have not seen is Zion Williamson.

The 21-year-old remains sidelined for the New Orleans Pelicans as he continues to recover from a foot injury. His health has been a big problem that has yet to be addressed since he joined the pro ranks in 2019.

“I know there’s work to be done in my recovery before I can safely return to the court, but I will continue to put in the time necessary so I can get back on the floor with my team and represent Pelicans fans and the city of New Orleans at the highest level," Williamson was quoted of saying in January via Yahoo Sports.

Unfortunately, a most-recent update from Christian Clark of the New Orleans Times-Picayune suggests that the 21-year-old cager may need a second surgery on his foot. If so, this would likely mean that Williamson may not see action at all this season.

Moreover, it appears all is not well when it comes to both Williamson and the Pels being on the same page. There is the growing belief that the 2019 top pick wants to move out of New Orleans and join a contender with the Pelicans failing to surround him with an able supporting cast.

As of this writing, there is no telling what the future holds for Williamson in New Orleans. Regardless, he could be a player that would be wise to watch.

CJ McCollum, a player who the Pelicans acquired in a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers, could be a difference-make for the cause of New Orleans. However, the 2016 NBA Most Improved Player gave an update that may be worrying for Pelicans' followers.

The 30-year-old said in a TNT broadcast that he has yet to talk with Williamson. He has reached out to people close to the 6-foot-6 phenom and wants to sit down with Williamson to likely discuss the direction of the Pelicans.

“I haven’t had conversations with him directly,” McCollum said on TNT. “I’ve spoken with some people close to him and I look forward to sitting down with him sooner [rather] than later. I know about as much as you do right now but I’m gonna get to the bottom of it.”

That dialogue between McCollum and Williamson could be telling. But unless the former Duke product can cut down weight and work his way back to shape, his future in New Orleans does not look promising.