TITLE: Zion Williamson Cleared for Full Contact; Jordan Walsh Earns First Start; Noa Essengue Shines in G League Debut
SLUG: zion-williamson-cleared-jordan-walsh-first-start-noa-essengue-g-league
CONTENT:
New Orleans, Boston and Chicago — The New Orleans Pelicans, Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls each received notable roster updates on Wednesday, ranging from a key injury clearance to promising performances by young players.
Pelicans
The Pelicans announced that Zion Williamson has been cleared for full-contact, on-court activities. The All-Star forward has been sidelined since Nov. 2 with a Grade 1 strain in his left hamstring. While the club did not set a timetable for his return, the clearance marks the first major step toward getting him back in the lineup. New Orleans has struggled early in the season without its franchise cornerstone.
Celtics
Second-year wing Jordan Walsh made his first start of the season in Boston’s blowout win over the Memphis Grizzlies. After closing the previous two games, Walsh logged 18 minutes as a starter, finishing with seven points, six rebounds and two blocks, and posting a plus-19. Guard Payton Pritchard credited Walsh’s professionalism and readiness for the opportunity, noting the 21-year-old’s growing maturity.
Bulls
Bulls rookie forward Noa Essengue scored 28 points in 29 minutes during his Windy City Bulls debut in the NBA G League. Despite the strong showing, head coach Billy Donovan said the organization will continue to focus on Essengue’s long-term development, emphasizing improvement in transition play, rebounding and off-ball movement.
The Pelicans await Williamson’s return, the Celtics continue to explore depth options with Walsh, and the Bulls monitor Essengue’s progress as the NBA regular season moves forward.
Source: Hoops Wire
