Zion Williamson Is 'Finding a Rhythm' and 'Still Learning' New Pelicans Offense
Zion Williamson admitted in Friday's postgame press conference following the loss to the Rockets, that the Pelicans 'got a lot of room for improvement" and as "NBA players, we got to be able to figure it out a little bit quicker." He also was transparent about adjusting to his role within the new Pelicans' offensive strategy.
"I'm definitely finding a rhythm," Williamson remarked. " Like I said, still learning the new offense. It's not really what we did last year, so it's definitely an adjustment, especially this being, like, my 6th, 7th game back. But as time goes on, I think the coaching staff and the players, we would definitely figure it out."
Nov. 10, 2023; New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson answering questions from the media.; Credit: Kyle T. Mosley, Pelicans Scoop
Zion's current 22.1 points per game is his lowest since joining the Pelicans. Throughout his career in New Orleans, his scoring average is 25.6 points, down from 27.0 points per contest in his second NBA season. During the press conference, you could sense the All-Star's frustration with adapting to James Borrego's new offensive scheme.
Regarding what Zion thought was the most significant difference, he replied, "Definitely, how much the ball is in my hands for sure. I think last year, I was able to facilitate a lot more. This year is kind of like taking a back seat a little bit and just kind of letting everybody else get in their rhythm and being unselfish."
Zion Williamson and the Pelicans hope to end their four-game losing streak at home inside Smoothie King Center. New Orleans will need every bit of his scoring and defensive prowess as they face the Dallas Mavericks at home for a 6 PM CT tip-off on Saturday, Nov. 12.
