Two big differences between then and now is the Philadelphia 76ers have played their way out of the top five, going 10-5 since Dec. 2 as they’ve gotten healthier, and the New Orleans Pelicans have closed the gap on the Wizards at the top, er… bottom?

Perhaps wildest part of Zion Williamson's career so far is that, when he's on the floor, he's pretty much lived up to the astronomical hype that he entered the league with. On his career, he's averaged over 24 points per game on over 62 percent true shooting.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The New Orleans Pelicans suspended power forward Zion Williamson for Friday night's game against Philadelphia for a violation of team policies. Williamson has been tardy this season to multiple Pelicans practices or flights, which led to the one-game ban.

Pelicans head coach Willie Green said that Williamson is dealing with a stomach illness and won't play Friday against the Celtics, Erin Summers of the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network reports.

Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) dribbles the bll against the Toronto Raptors during the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images / John E.

Zion Williamson (non COVID-illness) is OUT tonight against the Celtics.Source: Twitter @SeanGrandePBP What’s the buzz on Twitter? Kurt Helin @basketballtalk Zion Williamson says

Oft-injured New Orleans Pelicans All-Star power forward Zion Williamson has landed on yet another injury report, this time ahead of a Friday meeting with the reigning champion Boston Celtics. That said,

When the teams met, Pelicans forward Zion Williamson was just returning from a hamstring injury. Williamson scored 16 points on 5/15 shooting from the field in that game, his lowest point output since his injury.