The last few weeks have been a disaster and troublesome for Zion Williamson. First, the occasion of his birth announcement took a blow after adult star Moriah Mills launched ferocious allegations against the New Orleans Pelicans forward. There was a league-wide belief that the franchise was looking to trade Williamson before the beginning of the season. However, recent reports claim the 22-year-old has a secure future in New Orleans all because of Stephen Curry’s protégé.
Brian Windhorst opened up about the Pelican exploring trade possibilities for Zion Williamson only under specific circumstances. But now that their plans are virtually impossible, the two-time All-Star will most likely remain a Pelican.
The Battle of the NBA Drafts
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The New Orleans Pelicans were allegedly upset by Williamson’s off-court woes. This spiraled various rumors majorly centered on the potential trade. Their main aim was to get a top-three pick in the upcoming draft.
According to Windhorst, the franchise really wanted to draft Scoot Henderson. The Portland Trail Blazers and Charlotte Hornets both hold the dice for securing the G-League talent. The 19-year-old has taken Stephen Curry as his mentor and is looking to grow under his guidance.
Pelicans would only offer Zion Williamson if they could get either of the draft picks. However, recently, the Hornets clarified they will draft this year. We believe Charlotte has their eyes fixated on Brandon Miller as the second pick. The Trail Blazers have said nothing officially, but Windhorst claimed they have told “anybody’s who called recently” that they too will use their pick.
So, what does it really mean for Damian Lillard and Williamson?
Zion Williamson finally gets some uplifting news
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This raises questions about Damian Lillard’s future. However, as far as Williamson is concerned, the Pelicans aren’t desperately looking to offload him.
“So those were the options for Zion. As far as I know, it wasn’t like they were holding him out there and say ‘Call and make an offer.’ They were thinking what it would cost to move into the top-3 in this draft. That does not seem like it’s going to happen. I believe Zion Williamson is going to remain a Pelican,” said Brian Windhorst on ESPN’s First Take according to Real GM.
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Zion Williamson will probably breathe a sigh of relief. It’s been a time of difficulty for the former Duke forward, who’s currently dealing with an onslaught of allegations from Mills. But at least one worry is now off his plate.
Watch This Story–After the latest setback, a timeline of injuries faced by Pelicans star Zion Williamson