Zion Williamson Will Make $39.4 Million Next Season Since Pelicans Didn’t Waive Him Today

Zion Williamson, the first pick from the 2019 NBA Draft, will make $39.4 million next season since the New Orleans Pelicans didn’t waive him today (July 15). 

The Pelicans signed Williamson to a five-year, $197 million extension in 2022. 

“Based on language in Williamson’s contract, if the Pelicans did not request waivers on or by July 15, 2025, 100% of the Base Compensation would be protected,” Shamit Dua of In The N.O. wrote. “League sources indicate Williamson’s salary will become fully guaranteed for the 2025-26 Season.”

Williamson appeared in 30 games for the Pelicans last season. He averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists while shooting 56.7% from the field and 65.6% from the free-throw line. 

A two-time All-Star, Williamson has career averages of 24.7 points, 6.6 rebounds and 4.3 assists in 214 NBA games. 

Williamson has played in just 45% of his possible games with the Pelicans since being the No. 1 overall pick in 2019. The lefty has never played in a playoff game. 

New Pelicans exec Joe Dumars told Rod Walker of Nola.com that he’s not trading Williamson. 

“I’ve had really good conversations with Zion,” Dumars said. “We’ve had lunch. Dinner. Watched playoff games together. We’ve done it all. I’ve had some real honest conversations with him. Some real direct and honest conversations. We’re going to go forward with Zion. He’s going to continue to be a focal point here as we go forward.

“I sent him to the lottery for a reason. I want him to start focusing on the responsibilities of being the best player here and the focal point. There are some responsibilities that come with that. Go represent your organization.”

The Pelicans won only 21 games last season. They drafted Jeremiah Fears with the seventh overall pick in this year’s draft. 

New Orleans also traded CJ McCollum to the Washington Wizards for Jordan Poole and signed Kevon Looney.