New Orleans Pelicans were high on the hope-horse after having a fully fit Zion Williamson for the 2020-21 season. Everyone thought that the Pelicans would at least make it to the playoffs. However, that seems a little too far-fetched now.
They are standing thirteenth in the Western Conference with a 15-22 record, and it doesn’t look like they can make a comeback from this in the second half of the season, considering how competitive the West is.
Nevertheless, Zion has seen some individual success so far and has even joined Michael Jordan in an incredible record.
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Zion Williamson joins Michael Jordan in record
The Pelicans just hosted the Cleveland Cavaliers, which was their second matchup of the second half of the season. They did not have the start that they expected, losing by 30 points against the Minnesota Timberwolves in their previous outing. This is the biggest example of the Pelicans not living up to the preseason expectations.
Only Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson are trying to keep the Pelicans relevant and afloat in the West. After their win against the Cavaliers, an incredible stat came up that puts Williamson next to Michael Jordan.
As per ESPN stats and Info, “Zion has now scored 20+ points in 49 of his first 60 career games. That is the most by any player through their first 60 career games since Michael Jordan (52 of first 60).”
Zion has now scored 20+ points in 49 of his first 60 career games.
That is the most by any player through their first 60 career games since Michael Jordan (52 of first 60).
(via @ESPNStatsInfo) pic.twitter.com/9nt5h3E36A
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) March 13, 2021
On the path to greatness already?
The 20-year-old just made his debut in the 2021 NBA All-Star Game. In fact, just like last year, he has established himself as the leading scorer and star player for New Orleans Pelicans. He is already averaging 25.5 points along with 7.1 rebounds.
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His athleticism, size, and energy make him one of the most dominant power forwards in the league right now. His dunks are something his rivals resent the most because nobody likes getting posterized by his monstrous hammers.
Fans were even rooting for him to take part in this year’s dunk contest, but he didn’t. Honestly, there is hardly anyone who can compete with the way he slams the rims. The Pelicans bet on him in hopes that he would bring them a championship.
However, one star player isn’t enough to carry the team on its shoulders. The franchise needs to build a better supporting cast around him to make his job easier and more sufficient. Do you think the Pelicans have a shot at making the playoffs this season?
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Read also- Zion Williamson Confesses Only LeBron James Can Convince Him to Participate in Dunk Contest