New Orleans Pelicans fans have had little to cheer about in 2021-22. The team sits second-to-last in the Western Conference at 6-18, and that's following a 4-6 run in their last 10 games.

Things seemed likely to get better in New Orleans after it was reported that franchise player Zion Williamson, who is recovering from foot surgery, was nearing his return to action. Reports from Shams Charania indicated Williamson was cleared by doctors to resume basketball activities and that the 21-year-old would be going through his first full practice with the Pelicans on Thursday.

That won't be the case, however. According to ESPN's Andrew Lopez, Williamson is experiencing soreness in his ailing foot, which will delay his return to the floor.

Lopez indicated that Williamson did not partake in Thursday's practice. The star forward began to experience soreness while participating in full-court 4-on-4 drills. The Pelicans, not willing to risk the health of their franchise cornerstone, are taking the safe approach here and will dial back his workload for the time being.

After what has been a truly dismal start to the season, the Pelicans were hoping to get a massive boost on both ends of the floor in the form of Williamson. Unfortunately, they'll have to wait a while longer.

The third-year star is coming off his first-ever All-Star season in 2020-21, during which he averaged 27.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game, featuring in 61 contests for the Pelicans. That production has been sorely missed for Willie Green's squad, and just when it looked as if they'd get Zion back in the near future, those plans have been scrapped.