Pelicans Twitter changes tone on Zion Williamson rumors after spectacular play - "The guy toxic Pels fans are calling to trade?"

Zion Williamson is back. After missing 27 games, the New Orleans Pelicans forward suited up on Tuesday against the Minnesota Timberwolves for just his seventh appearance of the season.

Less than two minutes into the second half, Williamson reminded everyone of his trademark athleticism, executing a jaw-dropping fastbreak windmill dunk after a steal.

The Smoothie King Center erupted, and the mood among Pelicans fans shifted, particularly those on social media who had called for Williamson to be traded.

“This is the guy toxic Pels fans are calling to trade?” one fan said.

Williamson has been the subject of trade discussions, with some advocating for the oft-injured star to be moved in exchange for younger, more dependable players and additional draft assets.

“Don't ever say anything about Zion's weight issues again,” another said.

“Don’t wanna hear anybody saying to trade him ever again,” another added.

Other fans expressed relief at seeing Williamson back in action while lamenting the Pelicans’ persistent injury woes.

While Zion Williamson returned, Brandon Ingram remained sidelined with an ankle injury, and Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, Herb Jones and Trey Murphy have also missed games this season.

“If only the entire roster didn't crumble and they were in it still...this was a team that everyone wanted to see finally make the playoffs,” one said.

“So good to see him back and in rhythm just hope he stays healthy!!!” another said.

“Please stay healthy,” another added.

Injuries have derailed Zion Williamson’s hopes of steering New Orleans back to the playoffs

Last season, Zion Williamson enjoyed his healthiest campaign, appearing in a career-high 70 games and starting all of them. However, a left hamstring strain kept him out of the Pelicans’ first-round playoff series against the OKC Thunder, where they were eliminated in four games.

Reflecting on the season during exit interviews, Williamson expressed his desire to build on his progress and contribute in the playoffs moving forward.

“That was definitely a step in the right direction,” Williamson said (per NBA.com). “[I’m] looking to build on that next season. Hopefully do what I need to do so I can participate in the playoffs next year.”

This season, injuries once again plagued the team. Heading into Tuesday’s game, the Pelicans carried a 7-29 record, sitting 11 games behind the final play-in spot.