Zion Williamson cleared an important hurdle Tuesday night, appearing in both ends of a back-to-back for the first time in 14 months as the New Orleans Pelicans saw their five-game winning streak snapped in Cleveland.
Williamson’s Return to Consecutive Action
The 25-year-old forward, who had not played on consecutive nights since October 2024, logged 21 minutes in the 117-104 loss to the Cavaliers after seeing 25 minutes Monday against Dallas. He has now suited up in five straight games following a six-game absence with an adductor strain.
“Z is progressing well,” head coach James Borrego said before tip-off. “His mentality is right, his spirit is right, and the body is coming along every day.”
Williamson scored 26 points on 9-of-15 shooting, but New Orleans was outscored by 17 while he was on the floor.
Flagg Turns 19, Nearly Posts Triple-Double
In Dallas, rookie forward Cooper Flagg celebrated his 19th birthday weekend with 33 points, nine rebounds and nine assists in a win over Denver. Nuggets star Nikola Jokić praised Flagg’s poise, saying the teenager “looked really mature out there and didn’t feel like a first-year player,” according to ESPN.
Jackson Makes Most of First Start
Memphis forward GG Jackson II, whose production has fluctuated since a breakout rookie campaign in 2023-24, started for the first time this season with Cedric Coward sidelined by left heel soreness. Jackson responded with a season-high 18 points on 7-of-9 shooting and grabbed nine boards in a victory over Utah. He appeared more decisive after offseason work aimed at reducing over-dribbling, The Memphis Commercial Appeal reported.
Small Returns for Grizzlies
Grizzlies guard Javon Small played for the first time since Nov. 7, coming back from a turf-toe injury. While Cam Spencer remained the starter with Ja Morant out, Small contributed seven assists in 12 reserve minutes.
Spurs Beat Champions Again
San Antonio defeated the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder for the second time in 10 days. Despite the recent battles, Victor Wembanyama stopped short of calling the matchup a rivalry. “It’s something that builds naturally,” he told ESPN, adding he hopes it could become one “soon.” The clubs meet again Thursday in what could be the marquee game of the NBA’s Christmas Day slate.
Source: HoopsRumors
