Zion eying return to full practice next week

Zion Williamson has begun the conditioning phase of his rehab from a left hamstring strain and is expected to return to full practice next week while Brandon Ingram remains early in his rehab from a left ankle sprain, the New Orleans Pelicans announced on Tuesday.

Williamson has been out since since Nov. 6 because of the hamstring injury and overall has been limited to just six games this season, averaging 22.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and 5.3 assists.

Williamson is considered week-to-week, according to the Pelicans.

Ingram has been out since Dec. 7 after suffering a high-grade low left ankle sprain. The Pelicans say he is early in his recovery process and will be reexamined in around two weeks.

The Pelicans have been ravaged by injuries, with every member of their projected starting five having missed several games this season.

Trey Murphy III suffered the most recent injury, a left ankle sprain vs. the Nuggets in a loss Sunday, but is considered day-to-day. Jose Alvarado, out since November 11 with a left hamstring strain, has begun the conditioning phase of his rehab and is considered week-to-week.