Zion Williamson (illness) misses Pelicans’ opener vs. Bulls

NEW ORLEANS — Pelicans energy ahead Zion Williamson was scratched from the lineup for the membership’s regular-season opener in opposition to the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday evening.

Pelicans coach Willie Inexperienced stated Williamson was unwell and never in attendance for New Orleans’ 123-111 win.

Nevertheless, Inexperienced stated the membership is hopeful Williamson, who averaged 22.9 factors per sport final season, will be capable of rejoin the workforce when the Pelicans start a four-game West Coast journey in Portland on Friday.

The 6-foot-6 Williamson, the No. 1 choice out of Duke within the 2019 NBA draft, performed in a career-high 70 video games final season. However his absence Wednesday evening turned his 207th missed regular-season sport in his injury-plagued professional profession.

Within the 184 video games he has performed, nevertheless, he has averaged 24.7 factors.

Jose Alvarado (proper knee contusion) and Dejounte Murray, who missed apply Tuesday due to private causes, had been accessible for the Pelicans after being listed as questionable.

The Related Press contributed to this report.