Since his arrival in the league, Zion Williamson has been one of the most hyped youngsters. The New Orleans Pelicans sophomore has been all over the internet since his college days, earning him the hype that was enjoyed by the likes of a young LeBron James and Michael Jordan.
Similar to Jordan, Zion has also enjoyed a bright start to his career. Tonight, he had another 20 point game, becoming only the 2nd player behind Jordan for most 20-point games in their first 46 career games.
Jordan had 30, while Zion had his 35th tonight. While Jordan was more skilled, Zion is showing that despite struggling with a jump shot, he can drop 20+ points on any night.
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He finished with 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists against the Houston Rockets. This contribution helped the Pelicans secure a massive 29 point win over the Texas-based franchise.
Most 20-point games in a player's first 46 career games since the merger (1976-77)
1. Michael Jordan (40)
2. Zion Williamson (35)@Zionwilliamson | #NBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/s120stEYQh— CBS Sports HQ (@CBSSportsHQ) February 10, 2021
Can Zion Williamson lead the Pelicans like Michael Jordan led the Bulls?
The Pelicans had a slow start to their season, but they have seemingly found their groove. Tonight was their 11th win of the season and their 4th on the trot. Boasting of an impeccable 11-12 record, they are not giving up on a playoff spot.
Zion is doing his best to help the team and is averaging All-Star numbers. He is averaging 23.5 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game and is the 2nd-best scorer on the team.
The Pelicans have an exciting young unit, and Zion is stepping up as a leader for them. He isn’t a vocal leader yet, but he has been leading by example.
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It is too early to compare him to Jordan’s leadership, but the Pelicans will expect him to step up in the coming years. Many critics remain unconvinced due to his poor hesitation to taking jump shots.
But his dominance in the paint at such a young age is amazing. His ability to out-muscle and wriggle past defenders in the post to score is rare. His reaction time is also remarkable, as he is able to grab his own misses and finish them.
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The Pelicans are back on the road for their next 4 games. They play the Bulls next in a battle of two young units, and Zion could be in for a big game.
ALSO READ- Stats Proving That Zion Williamson Is Better For New Orleans Pelicans Than Anthony Davis