Year 7 for New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson will again end without a playoff appearance for the 25-year-old. New Orleans is 15-41 on the year, and near the bottom of the Western Conference standings. Williamson has yet to play a single playoff game for the franchise since joining the Pelicans in 2019. With the emergence of the team’s rookie class and the big leap Trey Murphy III took this season, many wonder whether Williamson’s days are numbered in the Big Easy.
Most of the former number one overall pick’s career criticism has stemmed from his lack of availability. This season, Williamson has had a health renaissance after an early-season injury to his right hip adductor, which was expected to keep him out for at least three weeks. Williamson not only returned to the court early but has not missed a game since, playing in 30 straight.
The former Duke standout is in the middle of his rookie extension, which extends through the 2027-2028 season. His deal is full of monetary provisions tied specifically to fitness and games played benchmarks. The majority of those stipulations lead to a bulk of non-guaranteed money for the last two years of his contract with New Orleans. There is a financial incentive for Williamson to remain in shape and play next season, which could benefit the Pelicans by increasing his on-court presence.