New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson brought in medical experts to implement extensive evaluations of his body over the summer and craft the best plan to ensure he’s durable enough to last for an 82-game season, according to NBA insider Will Guillory of The Athletic.
There have been several questions about Williamson’s diet and commitment to basketball since he’s only played 114 out of a possible 308 regular-season games since being drafted by the Pelicans with the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft out of Duke. Williamson played in 24 games in his rookie year and 61 games in his sophomore year. The lefty then missed his entire third year and appeared in just 29 games last season.
Williamson was in the gym during the offseason more than he has in his entire NBA career, according to Pelicans executive vice president David Griffin. Williamson signed a five-year, $194.3 million designated rookie contract extension in July 2022. The two-time All-Star has career averages of 25.8 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists with the Pelicans.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Williamson played pickup basketball with teammates early in September. The forward has been working with trainers to help get his lower body ready for an 82-game season. The 23-year-old Williamson is healthy, so it will be fascinating to see how many games he plays in 2023-24.
The Pelicans were interested in trading up in the 2023 NBA Draft to select Scoot Henderson. There were rumors about New Orleans trading Williamson to the Portland Trail Blazers, who drafted Henderson. However, no deal was made.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans Updates
Williamson averaged 26.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.6 assists last season while shooting 60.8% from the field and 71.4% from the free-throw line.
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