The New Orleans Pelicans travel to Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday night to face a Los Angeles Lakers team that has won each of its last three games. They have overturned a three-game losing streak on the back of some extremely impressive shooting and will look to extend their run against New Orleans.
For the Pelicans, a lot depends on the status of Zion Williamson, who claimed in his recent interview with ESPN that he is expected to play after recovering from an ankle injury. However, according to a post on X by ClutchPoints, this has proven enough to change his status to 'doubtful'.
The Pelicans say Zion Williamson (right ankle sprain) is questionable for tomorrow's game against the Lakers.
He recently told ESPN that he "hopes to be back" for the L.A. matchup. pic.twitter.com/XUxZMjPaEm
- ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 3 March 2026
Williamson suffered the injury during Friday's win over the Utah Jazz and had to sit out Sunday's 137-117 loss to the Clippers, a loss that snapped New Orleans' four-game winning streak. Despite recent improvement, the Pelicans continue to struggle.
They are 19-43 for the season and are in 13th place in the Western Conference, ten wins away from the 10th-place Portland Trail Blazers and need a turnaround in fortunes to reach the postseason.
Zion Williamson's injury status vs. Lakers
While the questionable tag is a concern, Zion himself expects to play, and barring any late incidents, fans can expect him to at least be involved off the bench.
Speaking to ESPN's Malika Andrews on Monday, Williamson said,
"I look forward to being back tomorrow against the Lakers."
Before suffering an ankle injury, Zion was in the midst of his most durable stretch as a professional, playing a career-high 35 consecutive games. On the season, he is averaging 21.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists while shooting over 58% from the field overall.
Despite this, the Lakers (36-24) have found their rhythm and enter the night as winners of two straight blowouts. They have won nine of the last 10 meetings against New Orleans and are looking for another straight win at home.
pelicans injury report
Zion Williamson (sprained right ankle): Questionable
Trey Alexander (G-League Two-Way): Out
Hunter Dickinson (G-League Two-Way): Out
lakers injury report
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