Is Zion Williamson playing tonight against Chicago Bulls? Exploring 2x All-Star’s status for season opener (Oct. 23)

Zion Williamson is listed as day-to-day on the New Orleans Pelicans’ injury report for Wednesday’s season opener against the Chicago Bulls. The two-time All-Star is reportedly suffering from a non-COVID illness and is expected to be a gametime decision.

Williamson didn’t practice on Tuesday, and his exact status is likely to be decided after the morning shootaround on Wednesday.

Injuries have continuously plagued the former No. 1 pick’s career. In his rookie season, he suited up for just 24 games. He played 61 games in the 2020-21 season before missing the entire 2021-22 season. He played in just 29 games in 2022-23. Last season, he competed in a career-high 70 games, averaging 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.1 steals.

However, he suffered a left hamstring injury in a play-in game against the LA Lakers that ended his season prematurely. The Pelicans made the playoffs but were swept 4-0 by the OKC Thunder in the first round.

Besides Zion Williamson, New Orleans’ offseason acquisition Dejounte Murray is listed as day-to-day with personal reasons. However, he was expected to rejoin the team on Tuesday afternoon. He is a gametime decision as well.

Trey Murphy III (hamstring) is out, while Jose Alvarado is questionable with a right knee contusion.

Trey Murphy praised Zion Williamson’s health entering new season

Zion Williamson’s health has been a major talking point in his career. The former Duke standout was projected to be a superstar and drew comparisons to even LeBron James. While injuries have derailed his career, he has been great when healthy.

In the past, Williamson was criticized for coming into the season out of shape. However, that seemed to have changed this offseason. In a chat with HoopsHype, his teammate Trey Murphy said of Williamson’s offseason work:

“Yeah, absolutely. He’s taken his body work and recovery very seriously. He just looks different from last year. He’s come into this season ready to play, in good shape. It’s just a testament to what he’s done this summer.”

While Williamson might not play Wednesday, Pelicans fans can take solace in the fact that it is because of an undisclosed illness and not an injury.

Where and how to watch Chicago Bulls vs. New Orleans Pelicans?

The Chicago Bulls and New Orleans Pelicans begin their regular season at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday at Smoothie King Center. The game will be broadcast locally on GCSEN/WVUE and Chicago Sports Network. Fans can also stream it live on NBA League Pass and FuboTV.