The New Orleans Pelicans are doubling down on injury-plagued, sixth-year pro Zion Williamson, hoping he can be a more reliable and productive centerpiece in the years to come. If that wasn't clear when the Pelicans (12-41) chose to trade high-scoring wing Brandon Ingram to Toronto — and keep Williamson — before last week's NBA

Pelicans announced they have suspended Zion Williamson for one game for a violation of team policies. Zion was reportedly late to team flight to Philadelphia which led to his suspension, per @ShamsCharania More here: https://t.co/FWjjqIQ9aT pic.twitter.com/sBVdd3f4z2

A few dead teams across the NBA are essentially playing for pride the rest of the way—New Orleans is one of said teams. A forgettable 2024-25 campaign began in the preseason when Dejounte Murray suffered the team’s first significant injury.

The loss of Jones has played a big role in New Orleans plummeting from No. 6 in defensive efficiency to 30th this season.