Why are Zion Williamson and the Pelicans not Playing 2022 NBA Christmas Games?
The New Orleans Pelicans have had a phenomenal start to the 2022-23 season. After a solid run in the 2022 postseason, many expected a healthy Zion Williamson to lead this young squad to new heights. And it is safe to say that Willie Green’s boys have superseded any expectations set for them.
On route to having the 3rd best record in the West, the Pels have managed to defeat some powerhouses such as the Nets, Grizzlies, Nuggets, and Suns.
Merely 0.5 games behind the #1 spot in the Western Conference, a 20-12 start for NOLA is terrific.
Also Read: Zion Williamson-Brandon Ingram Chemistry is the Key Says Shams Charania
Are the Pelicans playing NBA’s Christmas Day Games?
The NBA has scheduled five interesting games for the 2022 Christmas Day:
| New York Knicks | vs | Philadelphia 76ers |
| Dallas Mavericks | vs | Los Angeles Lakers |
| Boston Celtics | vs | Milwaukee Bucks |
| Golden State Warriors | vs | Memphis Grizzlies |
| Denver Nuggets | vs | Phoenix Suns |
Unfortunately, the #3 seed NOLA will not play on Christmas this year.
However, we have seen the Louisiana-based franchise suit up on Christmas 3 times before.
2015-2016: New Orleans Pelicans (88) VS Miami Heat (94)
2019-2020: New Orleans Pelicans (112) VS Denver Nuggets (100)
2020-2021: New Orleans Pelicans (98) VS Miami Heat (111)
How has Zion Williamson performed on Christmas Day?
Unfortunately, Williamson was injured and sidelined for the 2019-2020 Christmas day game.
However, the very next year, the former Duke Blue Devil did suit up and did manage to dominate.
Despite NOLA’s 13-point loss to the Zach LaVine-led Heat, “Zanos” recorded a stellar performance. Playing 38 minutes, the fully fit southpaw managed to put up 32 points and 14 rebounds.
While we may not get to see Williamson play on this Christmas Day, we’re sure the All-Star will get to play several other 25th December clashes throughout his career.
Also Read: Why Did the NBA Stop Making Christmas Day Jerseys Leaving Basketball Fans Low-Spirited?
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