Pelicans forward Zion Williamson was removed from the lineup for Sunday night’s game against the Atlanta Hawks.
The team announced that Williamson is dealing with tightness in his right hamstring. His absence adds to a lineup that is already missing guards Dejounte Murray (hand) and CJ McCollum (right adductor), forward Herb Jones (shoulder), and wing Trey Murphy III (right hamstring).
Williamson had scored 34 points and made 10 assists in a win over Indiana on Friday night. He wasn’t listed on New Orleans’ injury report until just before the game after coach Willie Green said Williamson’s status would be decided after warm-ups.
After Williamson was scratched, New Orleans said that Javonte Green would start in his place, with only one usual starter, wing Brandon Ingram, remaining in the lineup.
At the same time, the Pelicans said shooting guard Jordan Hawkins would be available to play despite experiencing lower back tightness in recent days. Hawkins was also listed as a starter alongside guard Jose Alvarado and rookie center Yves Missi.
Sunday night’s game is the first of two games in two nights, with Portland visiting New Orleans on Monday night.