The New Orleans Pelicans had high hopes for the 2025-26 NBA season after trading for a valuable draft pick to select Derik Queen as their No. 10 overall pick. However, just two weeks into the season, the team sits at 0-6, one of only two winless teams in the league.

The situation worsened with the announcement that Zion Williamson would be sidelined for at least 7 to 10 days due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain. Given Williamson’s history with injuries, there are rising concerns for Pelicans fans about his recovery and potential complications.

New Orleans’ dreadful start is characterized by three losses of over 30 points, leading to the poorest net rating in the NBA at -18.3. Rumors suggest that Willie Green may be losing the locker room as the pressure mounts on him with each defeat.

Williamson’s absence is a huge blow, considering he’s the team’s leading scorer and rebounder, and his injury adds another layer of defeat to the Pelicans’ already grim outlook. Upcoming games include a matchup against the Charlotte Hornets, who will also be missing key players LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.