Absent for the opening of the season, Zion Williamson won't have stayed too long in the infirmary. Sick, the star power forward of the Pelicans was allowed to return to the field last night in Portland, and even if Willie Green had to limit his playing time, his impact was immediate.
Author of 16 points (4 out of 15 on shots…), 11 rebounds, 7 assists and 4 blocks, Williamson was decisive with this final block on Anfernee Simmons, who had the possibility of snatching overtime (105-103 victory) . A huge scotch, and Zion let his rage explode, the ball in his hands. But in press conferencethe All-Star power forward admitted that Herb Jones was the first to touch the ball.
A half-time to rediscover your feelings
“We were talking about it with CJ (McCollum) in the locker room, and he said we were lucky I was there because he could have swung a shot, and possibly made it.” he says. “So Herb touched the ball, and I was able to jump again and take the ball.”
On a personal level, how did he feel when he was sick at the start of the week? “ [En première mi-temps]I was a little late. I saw the openings and that there was distance, but I was a step behind, and mentally, I lacked reaction” he admits. “In the second half it was different. I took my time, and I tried to go to my “spots”. I told Jordan (Hawkins) to look for his positions, and stay ready. I found him, and he fired. »
For Willie Green, who must be without Dejounte Murray for four to six weeks, Williamson's return is the best news. “ It’s huge that Z is back! He's excited, and the whole group is excited that he's here.” explained the Pelicans coachbefore discussing his limited playing time. “For now, it won't be all the way, but we'll see depending on how he feels. »
As Williamson played 29 minutes, and he still had juice to pull off this last counter, we imagine that physically, things are fine. “I’m still feeling the effects of the illness a little, but it’s going to be okay” he replies.
