Joe Dumars Makes Clear Statement on Zion Williamson’s Future With Pelicans originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The New Orleans Pelicans are set to enter a new era with Joe Dumars as their president of basketball operations. The Detroit Pistons legend was previously in charge of handing out fines and punishments for NBA players before the Pels fired David Griffin.
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As soon as reports about Dumars’ role within the Pelicans came out, many wondered what this hiring would mean for Zion Williamson. The former No. 1 overall pick has failed to live up to the expectations as one of the most hyped NBA prospects in the last two decades.
Williamson has shown flashes of his quality during his six-year tenure in New Orleans, but injuries and inconsistent play have derailed his growth. After yet another disappointing season, fans are questioning whether they saw the last of Williamson wearing a Pelicans jersey.
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion WilliamsonMatthew Hinton-Imagn Images
It was reported in April that the Pelicans’ ownership demanded that Dumars trade Williamson this offseason. They traded Brandon Ingram to the Toronto Raptors before, so a potential Williamson trade doesn’t seem as crazy as some might think.
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On Wednesday, Pelicans reporter Rod Walker shared Dumars’ strong words about Williamson’s future in NOLA. The executive revealed he has spent time with the player since he arrived in the city and has had several conversations with him.
“I’ve had really good conversations with Zion,” Dumars said. “We’ve had lunch. Dinner. Watched playoff games together. We’ve done it all. I’ve had some real honest conversations with him. Some real direct and honest conversations. We’re going to go forward with Zion. He’s going to continue to be a focal point here as we go forward.”
They also traveled together to Chicago for this year’s NBA draft lottery.
“I sent him to the lottery for a reason,” Dumars said. “I want him to start focusing on the responsibilities of being the best player here and the focal point. There are some responsibilities that come with that. Go represent your organization.”
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The Pelicans have the No. 7 overall pick in the upcoming NBA draft. With the right selection, they could start a new chapter for Williamson. However, the 2025-26 season could be the last try New Orleans makes with the forward.
Related: Zion Williamson’s Future With Pelicans Gets a Clearer Picture
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 4, 2025, where it first appeared.