Pelicans’ Zion Williamson Aims to Build on Triple-Double Against Slumping Suns

Zion Williamson reminded the NBA world of his elite talent on Thursday night, delivering a career-first triple-double in New Orleans’ 124-116 victory over the Phoenix Suns. Now, as the two teams meet again on Friday in Phoenix, the big question is whether Williamson will suit up for the rematch.

Williamson’s Statement Game

It has been more than five years since Williamson was drafted No. 1 overall in 2019, and while injuries have often kept him from reaching his full potential, Thursday’s performance was a glimpse of what he can be when healthy.

He finished with 27 points, 11 assists, and 10 rebounds, shooting an efficient 13 of 17 from the field and dominating down the stretch. The assist total matched his career high, and it was the kind of all-around game that Pelicans coach Willie Green has been waiting to see consistently.

“He was fantastic,” Green said. “He carried us down the stretch. Triple-double. Zion’s been amazing.”

At just 24 years old, Williamson still has time to establish himself as a true superstar, but staying on the court remains the biggest challenge. He has played in just 22 games this season, missing time due to injuries, rest nights, and a one-game suspension for missing a team flight.

After his dominant showing, Williamson was asked if he would be available for Friday’s game, and his response—while lighthearted—didn’t exactly offer clarity.

“Gotta talk to the higher-ups about that one. Great question,” he said with a laugh.

Pelicans Gaining Momentum

New Orleans is finding its rhythm at the right time, winning three straight games and four of its last five. Beyond Williamson’s heroics, the Pelicans showcased a balanced offensive attack, with six other players scoring in double figures on Thursday.

The team now sits in a solid position in the Western Conference playoff picture, but continuing to build momentum will be crucial as the season progresses.

Suns Struggling to Stay Afloat

For Phoenix, the situation is getting increasingly desperate. The loss to New Orleans was the Suns’ 10th defeat in their last 12 games, dropping them to five games below .500 with just 23 games remaining.

Devin Booker poured in 36 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds, while Kevin Durant added 28 points, but once again, the Suns fell short. After the game, Booker voiced his frustration, calling out the team’s lack of urgency.

“Skipping over the details and always taking the ‘get ’em next game’ mentality,” Booker said. “At some point, you’ve got to draw a line, and (it) should’ve been drawn a long time ago.”

Durant acknowledged the team’s struggles but was careful with his words.

“I don’t want to say the wrong thing and people take it out of context,” Durant said. “So I’m just going to agree that we’ve got to be better.”

Pressed about Booker’s comments, Durant insisted that the locker room remains engaged, and he expects a better effort in the rematch.

“Guys still want to figure this thing out,” Durant said. “I’m confident that our group will come out (Friday) with a sense of urgency and be better.”

Injury Watch: Will Bradley Beal Play?

Bradley Beal missed Thursday’s game with a calf injury, and his status for Friday remains uncertain. Phoenix coach Mike Budenholzer said Beal’s availability will be a game-time decision.

If Beal remains sidelined, the pressure on Booker and Durant will only increase as the Suns attempt to break out of their slump.

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Key Factors to Watch

• Will Zion Williamson Play? After his dominant performance, will the Pelicans allow him to play on back-to-back nights, or will they rest him to preserve his health?
• Suns’ Sense of Urgency Phoenix can’t afford to keep dropping games. Will their stars respond to the challenge, or will their struggles continue?
• Pelicans’ Balanced Scoring New Orleans has multiple scoring threats beyond Williamson. If their supporting cast steps up again, the Suns could be in trouble.
• Defensive Adjustments for Phoenix The Suns gave up 124 points on 55.6% shooting in the first game. Can they tighten things up defensively?
• Bradley Beal’s Status If Beal returns, Phoenix will have another scoring option. If not, Booker and Durant may have to carry an even heavier load.

Final Thoughts

The Pelicans are riding high after Thursday’s victory, but their outlook for the rematch hinges on Zion Williamson’s availability. Meanwhile, the Suns are a team in crisis, and if they don’t turn things around soon, their postseason hopes could start slipping away.

Will Phoenix respond with a much-needed win, or will New Orleans keep rolling and complete the road sweep? Friday night’s showdown will reveal a lot about both teams’ direction.