The New Orleans Pelicans are facing a critical juncture in their season, grappling with the need to maximize the contributions of star forward Zion Williamson. Despite his remarkable performance since returning from injury, the team has lost six consecutive games and currently holds the worst record in the Western Conference. Williamson’s average playing time of 28.6 minutes per game raises questions about whether the Pelicans are effectively utilizing one of their most talented players.
Williamson’s recent statistics highlight his dominance on the court. Over the last three games, he has averaged 32.7 points and 6.7 rebounds with an impressive shooting percentage of 62.3%. This marks his first stretch of three consecutive games scoring over 30 points since 2021. Such performance underscores his potential impact if given more minutes, particularly in closely contested matches, where the Pelicans hold a 5-13 record in games decided by five points or fewer.
Conditioning and Recovery: A New Era for Williamson
A major factor in Williamson’s ability to contribute appears to be his improved conditioning. After playing just 30 games last season, he dedicated his offseason to reshaping his body, aiming for a physique closer to his college days. This commitment is evident in his swift recovery from a Grade 2 adductor strain, which typically sidelines players for about a month. Williamson returned to action in just 12 days, showcasing the effectiveness of his offseason training.
Following his return, Williamson expressed optimism about his physical state. “Injuries suck,” he stated. “Over the summer, me putting in that work on my body allows me if something does happen, it’s not something that keeps me out for a super long time. I’m able to rehab at a faster but more efficient rate.” Such resilience is crucial for the Pelicans as they navigate a challenging season.
Interim head coach James Borrego has acknowledged Williamson’s significant contributions and noted that he is playing at a high level. “What I can tell you is, it’s as well as I think he’s played in a while,” Borrego commented, highlighting his mental and physical strength. “In recent history, this is probably the best.”
Strategic Decisions Impacting the Pelicans’ Future
While it is prudent to manage a player’s health, the Pelicans’ current strategy may not be yielding the desired results. With the team lacking their first-round pick in the upcoming draft, the potential for “tanking” is not a viable option. Instead, the focus should shift towards leveraging Williamson’s talent to improve their standing in the league.
If Williamson were to increase his playing time to 34 minutes per game, it raises the possibility that New Orleans could convert some of their narrow losses into victories. The decision to limit his minutes may be rooted in past concerns about his durability, but the evidence suggests that he is now capable of handling a greater workload.
As the Pelicans continue to struggle, the imperative to adjust their approach becomes more pronounced. By allowing Williamson to play a more significant role, the team can better capitalize on his abilities and potentially turn their season around. With the pressure mounting, the training wheels need to come off for the Pelicans’ star player.
