New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson is "not close to a return to action" as he deals with a hamstring injury, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.…

Looking like those restrictions the Pelicans put in his contract are going to come into play.

For reference:

Contract details per The Athletic/Mike Vorkunov (12/21/23)

  • Guaranteed seasons became non-guaranteed due to games played clause:\

    • 2024-25: 50% guaranteed, fully guaranteed 1/7/25
    • 2025-26: non-guaranteed, fully guaranteed 7/15/25
    • 2026-27: non-guaranteed, fully guaranteed 7/15/26
    • 2027-28: non-guaranteed, fully guaranteed 7/15/27

  • Guarantee triggers exist if certain criteria has been met: \

    • 20% of 2025-26 salary becomes guaranteed if passes all six of his weigh-in checkpoints during the 2024-25 season
    • 40% of 2025-26 salary becomes guaranteed if plays >= 41 games during 2024-25 season, additional 20% if plays >= 51 games, remaining 20% if plays >= 61 games.
      • Salaries for 2026-27 and 2027-28 seasons can be re-guaranteed if above metrics are hit the season prior