New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson. Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Zion Williamson hints at discontent with Pelicans

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 11/13/23

Zion Williamson isn't making the impact the New Orleans Pelicans had hoped for. The star forward isn't being utilized as a featured member of the team's offense. Instead, Williamson is playing a secondary role. The Pelicans have experienced mixed results to begin the season.

Speaking to the media following the Pelicans loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, Williamson revealed he's trying to "buy in" to his team's system.

"Last year, we had a team meeting and we brought up some things I can do better, especially with buying into the program. Right now, it's tough," Williamson said. "I'm taking a little bit of a backseat right now. I'm trusting the process. I'm trying my best to buy in right now."

Zion: "Last year, we had a team meeting and we brought up some things I can do better, especially with buying into the program. Right now, it's tough. I'm taking a little bit of a backseat right now. Im trusting the process. I'm trying my best to buy in right now."
— Will Guillory (@WillGuillory) November 13, 2023

Throughout his NBA career, Williamson has struggled with injury. The Duke product is in his fifth season and played 122 total games. Willie Green is likely cautious about running the Pelicans offense through a player who is likely to miss a significant chunk of the season. Williamson has also struggled to be effective from the field, shooting a career-worst 51.5 percent.

Williamson's comments should be a cause for concern. The star forward is too talented for a small market franchise like the Pelicans. If he can prove his health and isn't being utilized correctly, Williamson could look for a new situation. His presence on the court elevates his team's chances of being competitive. However, that's only possible when he's put in positions to succeed.

It's worth noting that Williamson is in the first year of a five-year $197M contract. The Pelicans hold all the cards right now. The star's value around the league is also low. No franchise wants to game on a player who has failed to remain healthy since entering the NBA. Trusting the process is Williamson's only option right now. He has to toe the line, whether he likes it or not.

If he rebuilds his value throughout the season and is still unhappy, we might see a blockbuster trade saga during the summer of 2024.

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