Zion Williamson Could Be Lined Up for Major Summer Deal as Pelicans Push for New Chapter

Zion Williamson is a name in the NBA that goes hand in hand with controversy. Following his weight management problems, Stephen A. Smith took a harsh stance on the New Orleans Pelicans star. Thankfully, according to the latest reports, it looks like the 25-year-old is getting a contract extension with his new team. 

Owing to Williamson’s poor form, the 2-time NBA All-Star was rumored to be leaving New Orleans. But as the trade deadline passed, it was evident that the 25-year-old would be staying with his present team. Speaking about his NBA future, New Orleans reporter Shamit Dua stated how the big man might still have the trust of the Pelicans’ front office. 

“I think Zion’s going to get extended. When Joe Dumars got here, there were some tough conversations had with Zion about what the expectation is for professionalism. And to Dumars’s credit, Zion really took that to heart. He really wants to be in New Orleans, and he really, really wants the narrative on him to flip,” Dua said on HoopsHype’s ‘Around The Beat’ podcast. 

According to Dua, the front office might follow the model used by the New York Knicks with Julius Randle. Over the next three years, the North Carolina native could receive a total contract worth $100 million. This will amount to approximately $30 million yearly. This will be quite a grab and an opportunity to turn his career around. 

Currently, Zion Williamson remains on a rookie-scale max contract through the 2027–28 season. Remaining healthy all year long has significantly increased his market value. Add to that his averages of 21.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists. Such a commitment even earned him a pat on the back from LeBron James.

Meanwhile, James’ fellow teammate, Austin Reaves, made a terrifying admission about the Pelicans star.

Why did Austin Reaves feel terrified of Zion Williamson?

Size has always been a deciding factor in the NBA. And as the Los Angeles Lakers played the Pelicans earlier this month, things got weird between Williamson and Reaves. Defending against the 2-time NBA All-Star, Reaves did not contest him and allowed an easy layup. Speaking about the same postgame, the Lakers star offered an interesting response.