“It’s Odd Being That Heavy at That Size”: Pelicans Teammate Speaks About Zion Williamson and the Impact of His Game

New Orleans Pelicans guard Lonzo Ball might have hardly played with their rookie Zion Williamson but already seems to have developed a good in-game understanding.

In an appearance on JJ Redick’s podcast with The Ringer on Monday, he talked about how he can always trust Williamson to be on the end of his lob passes.

“It looks good but I really just aim for the corner of the backboard, really. I mean, as you know, Zion’s probably going to catch it no matter where you throw it. So, for me, I really just try to get it over the defender because I know (Zion’s) going to get higher than him. As long as I do that, it’s going to work out,” he said.

Williamson’s strength is- rather uniquely for a 19-year old- his strength. Ball talked about Williamson’s strength and said that their communication was with small signs.

“It’s really Z, to be honest. He gives me that look like ‘I’m about to spin out’ because you know how strong he is. It’s odd being that heavy at that size. Once he gets you at a certain angle, you’re not going to get back in front of him. Z kind of gives me the little sign and he ends up spinning out and the ball is there,” Ball said.

Zion Williamson is one of the most exciting talents

Coming in as the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, many regarded him a talent as exciting as LeBron James from 2003. Many who were looking ahead for his performances in the NBA were kept waiting. An injury during the preseason kept him away from the start of the season.

Since coming into the lineup, Williamson has impressed in the short span. He made 19 appearances for the Pelicans averaging 23.6 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.

“It’s really just natural,” Ball said of Williamson. “Z is a different type of talent. I’ve never really played with a guy like him before. He complements my game tremendously and I’m just happy to be with him.”