Zion Williamson Ruled Out for Pelicans' Game Against Pistons

The injury-plagued Pelicans focus on roster evaluation as Zion Williamson and Yves Missi sit out, while Jose Alvarado returns to the lineup.

Zion Williamson will miss the Pelicans' matchup against the Detroit Pistons due to a low back contusion, marking his 41st missed game this season.
Rookie center Yves Missi is also sidelined with right hip soreness, while guard Jose Alvarado, previously questionable due to illness, is available to play.
The Pelicans, with a 19-52 record, have been eliminated from playoff contention and are focusing on evaluating their roster and draft positioning.
Injuries have defined the Pelicans' season, with long-term absences for key players like Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Dejounte Murray compounding their struggles.
The Pistons, pushing for a playoff spot, face a Pelicans team that suffered a 46-point loss to Detroit earlier this season, one of the worst defeats in franchise history.