I thought the Pels looked like a legitimate contender at the beginning of the season when Zion was healthy. I think he, CJ and Ingram only played in about 10 total games together and they have a really nice collection of role players to surround them. The roster just makes sense to me and has good fit. I would have liked to see what they could do. Zion looked like an absolute force when he did play. It was almost comical to watch guys bounce off of him in the paint. He was getting to the rim whenever he wanted.
It's a shame that he can't stay healthy. But by the same token, if he was actually physically good to play last night then he should have at least given it a go. That is utter horseshit that he's in his own head and that he thinks he would negatively impact the team or be hesitant. Like, give it the old college try, bud. If he was bad or out of rhythm, then pull him. If he gives your team anything -- even an emotional lift for 5 minutes like Willis Reed -- then you are probably advancing to the next game. Actually, if Nance Jr and Alvarado play last night they probably advance, too. But If Zion gets re-injured, who cares? He's got six months to get healthy. It's not like he's coming off a fucking ruptured Achillles. He's got a bum hammy because he's too fat.
I hate to be the get off my lawn guy, but could you imagine someone like Jordan or Kobe or Bird saying, "You know, I'm going to sit this elimination game out even though I'm physically ready because I don't feel quite like myself." I honestly can't believe he let that message get out. What a horrible, horrible look. It's way too early to write off a 22 year old kid but he hasn't done shit to address his weight and he seems like a gaping vagina who is more interested in cashing checks than being an NBA star.