Pelicans’ Zion Williamson cleared to return from foot rehab

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Expectations on former No. 1 overall pick Zion Williamson’s return have been heavy.

After missing the entirety of the 2021-22 season, Williamson finally sounds like he’s nearing a return.

Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles the ball downn court during the fourth quarter of an NBA game against the Golden State Warriors at Smoothie King Center on May 04, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

The New Orleans Pelicans gave a rehab update regarding Williamson, stating that the former All-Star is cleared to return to action.

According to the Pels, in a statement released Thursday, "The New Orleans Pelicans announced today that recent imaging of Zion Williamson’s right fifth metatarsal showed continued improvement. Williamson has been cleared in his return to play progression without any restrictions."

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Aside from injury concerns that have stemmed from his stellar run at Duke, Williamson has proven that his star potential is capable of translating to the pros.

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) goes to the basket against Philadelphia 76ers forward Danny Green in the second half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Friday, April 9, 2021. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

Williamson has appeared in 85 games since his first-overall selection in 2019. In that span, Williamson averaged 25.7 points and 7.0 rebounds per game.

Add Zion to a young core in New Orleans that reached the playoffs, via the play-in tournament, and the Pelicans may be in store for a deeper run in the postseason sooner than later.

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson