New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is set to make his long-awaited return to the court Tuesday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves after being sidelined for 27 games with a left hamstring strain. This news brings a glimmer of hope to a struggling Pelicans team that has endured a rough start to the season.

The Pelicans currently sit at a dismal 7-29 record, highlighting the impact of Williamson’s absence. With Zion in the lineup, New Orleans is 2-4, a marginal improvement over their 5-25 record without him. Over the last 27 games without Williamson, the Pelicans have gone 4-23, underscoring the challenges they’ve faced without their star forward.

Williamson has only played in six games this season, but his numbers remain solid. Averaging 22.7 points, 8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, Zion has shown his ability to contribute across the board, even in limited action. However, the small sample size raises questions about his durability and the team’s ability to build chemistry around him.

The Pelicans desperately need a spark, and Williamson’s return could provide just that. Despite the team’s struggles, Zion’s presence on the court offers hope. His scoring ability and physical dominance in the paint could alleviate the pressure on the rest of the roster. Additionally, his playmaking ability has already shown he can create opportunities for teammates. Beyond the numbers, having Zion back could be a significant morale boost for both the team and its fans, who have been eagerly awaiting his return.

While Zion’s return is a step in the right direction, the Pelicans face an uphill battle. The team will need to find ways to win consistently, especially with a daunting Western Conference schedule ahead. For now, the spotlight is on Williamson. Can he stay healthy and help salvage the Pelicans’ season? Only time will tell, but his return is undoubtedly a moment of optimism for New Orleans fans.