Pelicans star Zion Williamson (back) out vs. Timberwolves

Field Level Media|published: Fri 21st March, 11:53 2025

NBA: New Orleans Pelicans at Minnesota Timberwolves

Mar 19, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) drives to the basket past Minnesota Timberwolves center Naz Reid (11) in the second half at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson has been downgraded to out for Friday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Minneapolis.

Williamson, who is dealing with a low back contusion, scored 29 points on 12-for-16 shooting in the Pelicans' 119-115 win over the Timberwolves on Wednesday.

The two-time All-Star has played in just 30 games (all starts) this season, averaging 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists.

New Orleans selected Williamson with the top overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. His time with the Pelicans has been marked by multiple injuries, starting with a torn meniscus during the preseason of his rookie year.

Williamson, 24, has played in just 214 games (all starts) over five seasons, missing the entire 2021-22 campaign. He has averaged 24.7 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.3 assists.

--Field Level Media