Zion Williamson Diagnosed with Low-Grade Hamstring Strain, Expected Back Sooner Than Expected

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson suffered a low-grade left hamstring strain and is slated for re-evaluation in 7-10 days, with the team hopeful for his return well before Trae Young's projected month-plus absence. This injury, alongside Yves Missi's illness, prompted Jordan Poole and Kevon Looney to move into the starting lineup. Rookie Derik Queen also saw 18 minutes of action against the Hornets, providing a boost off the bench with Jose Alvarado and Saddiq Bey. The Pelicans, having invested a 2026 first-round pick to draft Queen, are keen on his development and cannot afford to punt on the season, suggesting Queen could see increased rotation minutes in Williamson's absence.