Zion Williamson’s Uncertain Future
Leading up to the season given Zion Williamson’s injury there was not only speculation about Brandon Ingram’s long-term future in New Orleans, but Zion Williamson’s future as well.
According to a report from The Athletic during the playoffs last season, members of Zion Williamson’s family want him out of New Orleans because of the “dysfunction” and turmoil the franchise has been in.
Now, with the franchise proving they are committed to their two young All-Stars by bringing in a veteran leader and borderline All-Star talent in CJ McCollum, rumors surrounding Zion’s future should start to settle down.
However, there will always be a thought that Williamson could leave the New Orleans Pelicans in 2023, especially if he barely plays this season and has to deal with injury concerns again next season.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: NBA Trade Grades: Reviewing Blazers-Pelicans Trade For McCollum
Finally having a solid foundation to begin building though, the Pelicans actually have a playoff-caliber core when they are at full-strength. Graham, McCollum, Ingram, Williamson and Valanciunas make up a very strong looking starting rotation and with key reserves like Herb Jones, Larry Nance Jr., Tony Snell and Jaxson Hayes, the Pelicans have the making of a playoff team.
They are currently committed to over $140 million in salaries for the 2022-23 season, including player/team options for next season, but the Pelicans could easily look to move players like Jaxson Hayes and Garrett Temple to bring in other key bench talents.
Not to mention, the Pelicans also own the rights to 12 draft picks through 2024, giving them plenty of options in trade talks this upcoming offseason.
Expectations should not be high for the Pelicans to do anything in the playoffs this season, assuming they make the playoffs, but there will definitely be high expectations heading into the 2022-23 season.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: NBA Trade Grades: Reviewing Blazers-Pelicans Trade For McCollum
Trading for CJ McCollum has given this New Orleans Pelicans’ franchise a direction, one that allows them to surround their two young All-Stars in Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson with plenty of reliable talents in attempts to make a real playoff run in the Western Conference for years to come.
