Zion Williamson is here to stay in New Orleans, and the organization is very happy about his decision to sign the max extension.
There was a lot of uncertainty around the future of Zion Williamson. Due to injuries, he wasn’t able to play in a single game for the New Orleans Pelicans last season. As a result, his future with the franchise was in doubt.
Many teams were interested in getting him as he is a generational player. However, Zion has opted to stay with the team that drafted him, and he wants to build a legacy here.
The New Orleans Pelicans have given Zion Williamson a five-year max extension. The former Duke star is going to get paid well despite his injury issues. The organization is also very happy with the decision made by Zion Williamson.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN: New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson has agreed on a five-year, $193 million designated maximum rookie extension that could earn him as much as $231 million, CAA Sports’ Co-Head of Basketball Austin Brown tells ESPN.
Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin talked about Zion’s decision. He said, “Zion wanted to make that same level of commitment to this organization.
Griffin added, “He wasn’t looking for a way out. He was looking for a way to stay. His family was looking for a way to be more involved with the community, and you see this here today. This is a human thing.”
Last year, the Pelicans made it to the playoffs without their best player. They gave the Phoenix Suns a run for their money. With Zion returning, things are looking bright for them.
The core of Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, Zion Willaimson, and Jonas Valenciunas will be great to watch. They also have other good players like Herb Jones and Graham who can also make an impact. As a result, the Pelicans will be a dark horse contender for the championship next season.
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