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New Orleans Pelicans rookie Zion Williamson bounced back after a tough performance in Game 1 against the Los Angeles Lakers in a simulation of the NBA Playoffs.
With the season on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic, Strat-O-Matic, a gaming company, took the initiative to simulate the rest of the season and the first round of the playoffs as they were originally scheduled.
The Pelicans were 10th in the standings prior to the season suspension but made up ground in the playoff race to clinch the eighth seed and a first-round matchup against the Lakers, according to the simulation.
Williamson managed just nine points and 14 rebounds in a Game 1 loss but bounced back in Game 2 to score 20 points, five rebounds and three steals during a 132-127 loss.
The Lakers now lead the series, 2-0.
A playoff matchup between Williamson and James likely would have been a highly entertaining affair and the simulation by Strat-O-Matic offered a glimpse into what could have been.
Of course, the NBA has stated that all options are on the table for resuming the season but has said that there has been no decision made on when that may happen.
Strat-O-Matic will run simulations throughout the playoffs as originally scheduled.
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