'Really, Really Impressed': Joe Dumars Weighs In on Zion Williamson’s Future With New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations Joe Dumars has offered early praise for Zion Williamson as speculation continues over the All-Star forward’s long-term future with the franchise as the 2025-26 NBA season nears.

“From what I’m hearing from Joe, he’s been really, really impressed with Zion,” ESPN’s Marc J. Spears said during an appearance on NBA Today.

Dumars, hired in April, has reportedly built a strong relationship with Williamson and has encouraged him to step into a greater leadership role as he enters his mid-20s.

Zion Williamson’s Contract Structure Amid Durability Concerns

Williamson’s contract reflects the high expectations—and real concerns—that come with his immense talent and inconsistent availability. On July 15, his $39.4 million salary for the 2025–26 season became fully guaranteed.

His salaries for 2026–27 ($42.2 million) and 2027–28 ($44.9 million) remain conditional, with salary protections based on games played thresholds (41, 51, or 61) and physical benchmarks tied to weight and conditioning.

Since being drafted No. 1 overall in 2019, Williamson has played in just 214 of a possible 492 regular-season games. Despite another injury-shortened campaign in 2024–25—he appeared in only 30 games—Williamson averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists while shooting 56.7% from the field.

Zion Williamson’s Outlook With the New Orleans Pelicans

Dumars has made it clear he isn’t rushing into decisions but won’t hesitate to make necessary changes. He views Williamson as an “extraordinary talent” and has emphasized accountability and professionalism across the roster.

Internally, sources indicate to FastbreakJournal.com that the Pelicans are aggressively pursuing trade offers for Williamson, but no one is considered untouchable as Dumars evaluates his path forward.

Even with that possibility in the background, the Pelicans’ current approach appears focused on supporting Williamson’s development and challenging him to stay physically and mentally available for the demands of leading a team. For now, Dumars’ impression is positive.

The question is whether Williamson can sustain that momentum and finally deliver on the promise that made him the face of the franchise when he was selected No. 1 overall in the 2019 NBA Draft.