New Orleans Pelicans Injury Report: Will Zion Williamson Play Against the Warriors Tonight?

The New Orleans Pelicans released their latest injury report ahead of their game against the Golden State Warriors on November 29, 2025 at Chase Center. Zion Williamson is cleared to play after avoiding the injury list, giving the team a major lift. The matchup begins at 8:30 p.m. EST in San Francisco.

The Pelicans enter the game with several absences that affect their rotation. Zion’s availability is important because the team continues to navigate a long list of injuries. His return also offers stability as the Pelicans attempt to keep pace in the Western Conference.

Zion Williamson’s Status and Key Updates in the New Orleans Pelicans Injury Report

Zion Williamson was not listed on the official injury report for the Warriors game. He appeared in the Pelicans’ previous two games after returning from a brief absence on November 22. According to team updates, he played 32 minutes against the Memphis Grizzlies and recorded 17 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two blocks.

Zion’s role remains central to the Pelicans’ offense. His return helps offset the absence of multiple rotation players. Consistent minutes across the last two games indicate that the team is comfortable with his conditioning and workload.

The biggest concern beyond Zion is Trey Murphy III. Murphy is listed as questionable because of right elbow soreness. He played 38 minutes in the previous game and finished with 12 points, four rebounds, six assists, and two steals.

If Murphy sits, the Pelicans would lose one of their most reliable perimeter options. He has appeared in 18 of the team’s 19 games this season. A second missed game would thin an already tight rotation.

The Pelicans also confirmed five players are ruled out. Jordan Hawkins is out with an illness. Herb Jones and Karlo Matkovic are both sidelined by right calf strains. Jordan Poole will miss the game because of a left quad strain. Dejounte Murray remains out following a right Achilles rupture.

These absences create a significant depth challenge. The Warriors game will test the Pelicans’ ability to adjust quickly. Zion’s availability therefore carries even more weight as the team tries to maintain balance on both ends of the court.

How the Pelicans Match Up Against the Warriors

The Warriors rely heavily on pace, spacing, and perimeter shooting. The Pelicans will need strong interior play to counter Golden State’s style. Zion’s presence allows the Pelicans to attack the paint and control tempo.

The injury report also affects defensive matchups. Missing Herb Jones removes the Pelicans’ top perimeter defender. Golden State guards could benefit from that absence.

Trey Murphy’s status will also influence spacing and three-point output. His shooting helps keep defenses honest, and without him, the Pelicans may need different rotation patterns. The game could hinge on bench contributions if the roster remains thin.

The Pelicans move into Saturday’s matchup relying on Zion Williamson’s impact and leadership. His availability offers stability on a night with multiple absences. The injury report shapes the challenge, but the Pelicans still enter the game with confidence.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Zion Williamson playing tonight against the Warriors?

Yes. Zion Williamson is cleared to play and was not included in the final injury report. He has played in the past two games with no new setbacks.

Q2: Why is Trey Murphy III listed as questionable?

He is dealing with right elbow soreness. He played extended minutes in the previous game and is being evaluated for possible rest.

Q3: Which Pelicans players are ruled out?

Jordan Hawkins, Herb Jones, Jordan Poole, Karlo Matkovic, and Dejounte Murray will not play. All are dealing with injuries or illness.

Q4: What time does the Pelicans vs Warriors game start?

The game begins at 8:30 p.m. EST on November 29, 2025. It will be played at Chase Center in San Francisco.

Q5: How important is Zion Williamson for the Pelicans lineup?

He is central to the team’s interior scoring and overall pace. His presence reduces pressure on the bench and helps balance the offense.