Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans face another disappointing run this season, putting them in the bottom of the West. As the trade deadline approaches, Williamson is one of the major prospects. However, an insider mentioned this possibility as unlikely, bringing the Pelicans star’s lack of availability due to his often injuries.
Even with a promising lineup, the Pelicans are at a precarious 7-31 standing. The team’s biggest hindrance is the injuries on their roster. Besides Williamson’s hamstring ailment, some teammates like Brandon Ingram and Herb Jones are out due to their respective ailments.
Despite having an average of 22.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists, Williamson has only played for seven games this season.
ESPN’s insider Brian Windhorst brought up the former Duke Blue Devils’ lack of availability during Wednesday’s episode of “Get Up.” Despite recognizing Zion Williamson’s potential value, Windhorst ultimately believed no teams would be willing to accept the star forward.
“There’s no sense of that. I think the Pelicans would listen to a great offer but there’s no real reason to make a great offer. The guy can’t stay on the court,” Windhorst said.
Zion Williamson entered as the first overall pick of the 2019 NBA draft, notable for his talented plays during his college stint. However, injuries have shaped his professional career since then.
Last season, Williamson played 70 games, the most throughout his career. He averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, even leading the Pelicans to the Play-In tournament. His postseason debut immediately backfired as he suffered from an injury against the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Pelicans would have to play without Zion Williamson and their stars as they face the Philadelphia 76ers on January 10.
Zion Williamson out of Warriors’ target ahead of trade deadline
As the NBA’s trade deadline ends, the Golden State Warriors rule out Zion Williamson as one of their targets, per Marc J. Spears. During an interview at KNBR 680’s “Murph & Murkus,” the Andscape insider shared his revelations and insights about the Warriors’ decision.
“I also did hear that Zion’s not on the [Warriors] radar,” Spears said.
“Which, I know others might feel differently, but probably a good thing. Because with Zion, you just don’t know what you’re going to get and when he’s going to be healthy, and his [salary cap] number’s rather high as well. I just think the Warriors in the end will get someone in a very creative way. They actually have to.”
Despite his promising talent, Zion Williamson is ravaged by his injuries, with the recent one back in November. His drawbacks wouldn’t attract teams such as the Warriors, who require stable players ready to improve their standing as the postseason arrives soon.
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