Zion Williamson was scratched from the Pelicans' lineup against the Hawks because of a hamstring strain

Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Pelicans forward Zion Williamson has been left out of the lineup for Sunday night's game against the Atlanta Hawks.

The club said Williamson had right hamstring strain. His absence further decimates the lineup without guards Dejounte Murray (hand) and CJ McCollum (right adductor), forward Herb Jones (shoulder) and winger Trey Murphy III (right hamstring).

Williamson, who had 34 points and 10 assists in a win over Indiana on Friday night, was not listed on New Orleans' injury report until shortly before the decision, after coach Willie Green said Williamson's status would become clear after pregame warmups. Oops.

After Williamson was cut, New Orleans announced that Javonte Green would start in his place in a lineup that featured only one usual starter: winger Brandon Ingram.

Meanwhile, the Pelicans said shooting guard Jordan Hawkins would be available to play despite lower back tightness that has plagued him in recent days. Hawkins was also listed as a starter along with guard Jose Alvarado and rookie center Yves Missi.

Sunday night's game is the first of two in two nights, with Portland visiting New Orleans on Monday night.

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