Zion Williamson has rubbished any rumor of him leaving the New Orleans Pelicans. Williamson has missed the entire 2021/22 season due to a fractured right foot. It was a nightmarish situation for the 21-year-old. Despite all of that, the Pelicans had proven themselves to be strong contenders.
The team attained the eighth seed among all the Western Conference teams. Zion Williamson is one of the Pelicans’ most promising players and his absence would have affected their chances next season.
Zion wants to stay in NOLA. pic.twitter.com/k46UMKtL5D
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) June 11, 2022
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
During a YMCA basketball camp in New Orleans, Zion was asked whether he would stay in New Orleans or not. He said, “I do want to be here. That’s no secret. I feel like I’ve stood on that when I spoke. Currently, this does not have anything to do with that. This is just me wanting to be a pillar in my community.”
Zion recalled that it was a long year for him as he faced rehab and mental battles. Presently, he feels he is ready to work.? When asked about his contract, he answered, “You have to ask the Pels, baby, “ putting the ball straight into the franchise’s court.
READ MORE:? Millionaire Shaquille O?Neal Once Recruited Former Orlando Magic Teammate While Shooting a Film
The question is whether Zion is willing to stay in New Orleans for a reduced max contract. The Pelicans have not offered him a proper one yet due to last year’s struggles. The question is whether they can trust Zion Williamson or not?
Zion Williamson and his torrid 2021-22 season
Before this statement, there were rumors of Zion getting traded to the New York Knicks. Fans and experts were criticizing him for his weight. The team’s performances during the playoffs made people think Zion’s time with the Pelicans was surely over.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
His injury saga did not help. The Pelicans were very non-transparent, in regards to what extent Zion was injured. They kept pushing his return back until it was no longer tenable. His weight gain during that period also made him a subject of mockery.
Experts like Charles Barkley criticized him for his attitude towards his fitness. It was a torrid time for the All-Star power forward.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY:? Who is Al Horford’s Miss Universe Wife?
But will New Orleans offer him a contract that makes him stay? He is committed to this project and if all the cards fall right, he might just stay.