Is Zion Williamson playing tonight against the Indiana Pacers? | December 26, 2022 | 2022-23 NBA Season

So far this season, Zion Williamson has been one of the NBA's most dominant players. After missing all of last year, the former No. 1 pick has come back in impressive fashion.

Through his first 25 games, Zion Williamson is averaging 25.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 4.7 assists. This stellar play has carried the New Orleans Pelicans to second spot in the Western Conference standings with a record of 20-12.

After not playing on Christmas Day, the Pelicans are back in action Monday night with a matchup against the Indiana Pacers. However, it does not look like they will have the services of their star forward.

Per the latest injury report, Zion Williamson is listed as doubtful against Indiana due to Return to Competition Reconditioning. The 22-year-old has missed New Orleans' past two games after being put in COVID-19 protocols. If he does sit Monday, it will be his eighth time being sidelined for a game this season.

The New Orleans Pelicans should ease Zion Williamson back into the lineup

For multiple reasons, the New Orleans Pelicans should be in no rush to get Zion Williamson back on the floor. Given their hot start to the season, they can afford to drop a game if it means making sure their top player is 100%.

In the seven games Zion has missed, the Pelicans have managed to do more than hold their own. They have a 5-2 record without the one-time All-Star, with those two losses being at the hands of the Phoenix Suns and Boston Celtics.

Aside from the play of Zion Williamson, part of why the Pelicans have done so well this season is their depth. They have done a great job getting production all up and down the roster. With their ability to play at a high level collectively, New Orleans should be able to weather the storm until Zion is fully ready to return.

The final reason why the Pelicans shouldn't rush things is because of their opponent. Indiana has a roster full of talent, but is more focused on development than being competitive. They are also starting to trend in the wrong direction following a hot start to the season.

Even with Zion on the sidelines, this is a game where the Pelicans can walk away victorious. Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum should be able to lead the group to a win against an inexperienced Pacers squad. The NBA season is a marathon, which is why New Orleans needs to keep the long view in mind with Zion's health.