Since before he even arrived to the New Orleans Pelicans, there was talk that Zion Williamson wanted to leave.
Whether it was anonymous reports from “family members” baseless speculation by delusional Knicks’ fans or just pure conspiracy theory, there has always been chatter around Zion’s comfort with New Orleans even though he has repeatedly tried to end it by re-affirming his commitment.
He did so again recently at a YMCA in New Orleans according to Andrew Lopez of ESPN.
“I do want to be here. That’s no secret. I feel like I’ve stood on that when I spoke,” Williamson said to reporters at the Dryades YMCA in New Orleans. “Currently, this does not really have anything to do with that. This is just me wanting to be a pillar in my community.”
Aside from the fact that the man has said he wants to be in New Orleans repeatedly (how many times does he have to say it?), there is ample reason for Zion Williamson to want to stay with the New Orleans Pelicans for the long term.
New Orleans Pelicans: Zion Williamson and the money
No star player has ever opted out of signing a rookie extension with the team that drafted them, as it is financially unwise to do so.
The New Orleans Pelicans can offer Zion Williamson the most in a max contract extension, and even if there are some complications, that is exactly what is going to happen.
We all know that star players can demand trades whenever they want (a fact Pelicans’ fans know all too well) so it makes sense for Zion to get his money now even if he did want out eventually.
Also, with his injury history, not signing an extension would be a big risk, as he’d be gambling that it doesn’t happen again. I can’t see any reason to take that risk when the Pelicans are going to throw guaranteed generational wealth at him.
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