Zion out vs. Clippers due to health and safety protocols

New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson will miss Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers due to health and safety protocols, the team announced several hours before tipoff.

The designation is being used for players who are in quarantine and undergoing contact tracing. It doesn't necessarily mean an individual has tested positive for COVID-19.

Williamson's absence is related to an inconclusive test and the timing of the results of another test, a source told ESPN's Andrew Lopez. The Pelicans reportedly believe it is not a significant issue.

Starting guard Lonzo Ball was already ruled out for Wednesday's matchup due to a knee injury, while backcourt mate Eric Bledsoe is also out.

Williamson is averaging 21.9 points, 8.1 boards, and 1.3 steals through nine appearances this season. He currently ranks seventh in the Association in total offensive rebounds (33) and 13th in free-throw attempts (66).

The former No. 1 overall pick finished third in the NBA's 2019-20 Rookie of the Year voting and was a member of the NBA All-Rookie first team.