Zion Williamson's impressive healthy streak ends 

New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson recently saw an eye-popping streak come to an end this past weekend. Williamson's career-high stretch of 35 consecutive games played in a season was snapped after he missed the Pelicans matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers due to an ankle injury. After such an impressive run of availability, should this development alter the Pelicans' long-term approach when deciding to keep or trade the two-time All-Star?

Why was this streak significant for Williamson?

At this juncture, it is fair to say that Williamson hasn't lived up to his billing as the 2019 No. 1 overall pick. The former Duke forward has struggled immensely to stay available for the Pelicans due to countless injuries. 

In fact, Williamson has missed 54.1% of his possible regular-season games across seven seasons since being drafted in 2019. The 6-foot-6 forward has dealt with recurring issues involving his hips, foot, and ankles - a pattern that continues to hinder his long-term durability. 

Williamson was a guest on ESPN's "NBA Today" on Monday and participated in an interview with Malika Andrews. The star forward conveyed the most difficult point in his career thus far. 

"The most difficult point was when I missed my third year with a broken foot. There were a lot of criticism of my weight and my care for the game," Williamson said. 

Williamson's most durable campaign was during the 2023-24 season, when he appeared in 70 games and aided the Pelicans into playoff contention. Unfortunately, Williamson suffered a left hamstring strain in a play-in game against the Los Angeles Lakers, which ended his season. 

Trade rumors surrounding Williamson have circulated over the past few seasons. Williamson's availability, along with ongoing concerns about his weight and conditioning, has intensified speculation that New Orleans could eventually explore moving the former No.1 overall pick. 

It's also worth noting that before this year's 35-game stretch, Williamson's longest run of consecutive appearances was just 24 games, set during the 2020-21 campaign.

A rare talent still worth the gamble

The former Duke star has shown ample potential whenever he's available. Williamson earned his first All-Star nod in 2020 when he averaged 27.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while having shot 61.1% from the field. The Pelicans star is currently averaging 21.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists while shooting an efficient 58.5% from the field. 

The 25-year-old forward is known for his immense power and agility, as he uses his 280-pound frame to aggressively attack the basket. 

Williamson may not have lived up to his draft hype thus far, but his recent streak of being available for the Pelicans should give the franchise an optimistic view of their franchise player.