Days After Being Called Out by Own Teammates, Zion Williamson Catches Strays From Ex-champ: ?Not Ready to Be a Leader?

The Narrative around Zion Williamson has to change if the New Orleans Pelicans aspire to have a good season. But, by the look of things, it does not seem to be happening anytime soon. The Pelicans veterans have already called out the budding superstar for his lack of effort. Meanwhile, an ex-champ has voiced out his frustration at not seeing the leadership qualities in Zion.

Will Zion make a shift in his attitude towards his career and the Pelicans to give them a shot at being competitive? Or is it too late for things to change?

‘Zion Williamson is not a leader’

When the conversation is not about the skill, but about the lack of effort, then the issues are emanating from a deeper place. Zion Williamson, who had a horrendous season last year, was expected to be all hyped up about this season. Yet, he finds himself being questioned about his efforts. Ex-champ Richard Jefferson, who was an energy guy during his time in the league, goes so far as to declare that Zion is ?not ready to be a leader.? He is right in his analysis, as Kendrick Perkins chimes in as well, and compares him to the future “Hall of Famers”.

Zion Williamson is an explosive athlete with a weight issue. He has only played 29 games last year, and yet he is not raring to go this season. Zion is a top 15 earner of the league, and he has not even played a single playoff game in his 4-year career. It is definitely time for the Pelicans to hold Zion accountable, or else the likes of Brandon Ingram and C. J. McCollum will have yet another disappointing season.

Pat Bev was right

Patrick Beverley, not long ago, exclaimed that 50 percent of the NBA players don?t love the game at all. They like the NBA lifestyle and its perks, not the game itself. He went on to say these players are some of the best ones in the league. Zion fits that category perfectly. As much as he enjoys the perks of the game, he is not seen to be dedicating himself to the game.

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There are many talented players who are dying to get in the league. Some spend their entire 20s in the G-League, expecting to be spotted and given an opportunity. But there are natural talents like Zion who have a nonchalant attitude toward the game. And if he has one more disappointing season, why should the Pelicans be patient with him anymore? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

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