Zion Williamson undergoes surgery, out 6-8 weeks

Zion Williamson of New Orleans Pelicans underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on Monday to repair a torn lateral meniscus and is expected to miss 6-8 weeks of action as he recovers from the surgery.

This is not only a huge blow for the Pelicans organization but also for the millions of basketball fans who have been eagerly awaiting the debut of one of the game’s most highly-anticipated rookies. Sadly that day will have to wait until mid-to-late December and that’s assuming the hefty big man does not suffer any setbacks during his recovery.

Given his unique combination of size and freakish athleticism, the 2019 first overall pick was expected to be an unstoppable hurricane-like force that was to sweep through the NBA. As can be expected, the Pelicans will likely take an ultra-cautious approach with their prized rookie. They’re not perceived to be playoff contenders in a stacked Western Conference, so Zion’s overall career longevity should take priority over the official start of his professional basketball career.

The Pelicans plan to slide Brandon Ingram over to the power forward position in the meantime, while a rotating frontcourt of Derrick Favors (starting center), Jahlil Okafor and Nicolo Melli will soak up the minutes originally intended for Williamson.