The Zion Williamson injury lingered over the New Orleans Pelicans all season long. Despite the many distractions regarding his injuries and the sense of aloofness he sometimes showed, the Pels made the playoffs behind a strong young core and midseason acquisition CJ McCollum.

Williamson's foot injury kept him sidelined while the Pelicans proved they are good enough to be a playoff team. The future of the team looks much brighter with youngsters like Brandon Ingram and Herb Jones shining. Williamson has proven to be a star when healthy. At long last, he is finally healthy enough to get back on the court full-time.

The Pelicans said that Williamson's metatarsal is improving and has been cleared to return to play without restrictions.

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Although the Pelicans season ended a while ago, having a healthy Williamson again is massive news. Getting him to work with McCollum and his other new teammates throughout the Pelicans offseasons is huge as they look to establish themselves as a strong team. In just one healthy season, Williamson proved to be a franchise-changing talent and All-Star.

The Pelicans' offseason could be a very busy one. They have the eighth overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft and will have to work out a contract extension with Williamson, who is eligible for a rookie-scale max deal. Things are finally staritng to turn around in for basketball in the bayou.