The New Orleans Pelicans are facing a challenging season, primarily due to the limited playing time of their star forward, Zion Williamson. After participating in just 30 games last season, Williamson is eager to contribute significantly this year. With a renewed focus on his conditioning, he has returned to a shape reminiscent of his college days, just in time for the 2025-2026 season. Despite his impressive performance since returning from injury, the Pelicans have struggled, losing six consecutive games and currently holding the worst record in the Western Conference.
Since stepping back into the starting lineup, Williamson has showcased his talent, averaging 32.7 points and 6.7 rebounds with an impressive shooting percentage of 62.3% over the last three games. This marks his first stretch of three consecutive games scoring over 30 points since 2021. Despite this individual success, the team’s overall performance remains concerning, as they continue to grapple with close-game losses.
Historically, Williamson has faced challenges with injuries, necessitating minute restrictions during games. Yet, his remarkable recovery from a Grade 2 adductor strain earlier this season—returning in just 12 days, a timeframe significantly shorter than typical—demonstrates his improved physical condition. Williamson himself acknowledged the importance of his offseason work, stating, “Injuries suck. Over the summer, me putting in that work on my body allows me if something does happen, it’s not something that keeps me out for a super long time.”
Interim head coach James Borrego has commended Williamson’s recent performances, describing this period as possibly the best he has seen from the forward in a while. “Mentally and physically, he looks really strong right now,” Borrego said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Williamson’s health while also maximizing his contributions on the court.
The Pelicans’ current strategy is under scrutiny as they navigate the challenges of managing a superstar athlete while also contending with a poor team record. With the franchise lacking its first-round pick for the upcoming season, any attempts at a partial rebuild through “tanking” are off the table. Furthermore, the team’s performance in clutch situations has been dismal, with a record of just 5-13 in games decided by five points or less.
Some analysts argue that increasing Williamson’s playing time from an average of 28.6 minutes to around 34 minutes could be crucial in transforming narrow losses into wins. If the Pelicans aim to prove the viability of their current roster and strategy, they must consider removing the constraints on Williamson’s playing time.
Ultimately, the success of the New Orleans Pelicans this season may hinge on how they utilize their star player. With Williamson demonstrating his readiness to take on a larger role, the franchise must adapt its approach to harness his full potential. As they continue their campaign, the Pelicans will need to find a balance between player health and competitive success.
