Zion Williamson showed up for another Pelicans training camp looking leaner, talking about his offseason work and hoping this season will finally be different.
Yes, we’ve heard some version of this before.
Williamson seems to understand that better than anyone.
“I’m not where I want to be,” Williamson said at media day. “I’m just not where I need to be.”
But there may be more behind this year’s optimism than another collection of offseason workout videos.
Williamson has spent the past year working closely with performance coach Kris Chrisp, who completely overhauled the former No. 1 pick’s approach to training and recovery, according to William Guillory of The Athletic.
The changes went beyond lifting weights and getting into shape. Chrisp rebuilt Williamson’s home gym and placed greater emphasis on stretching, sleep, recovery and understanding how his body responds to workouts.
There were some encouraging results. After returning from an adductor injury last season, Williamson played 35 consecutive games, the longest streak of his career.
He finished with 62 appearances, his second-highest total, and Chrisp said Williamson arrived at camp weighing 271 pounds after spending much of his career listed at 284. (NBA.com)
Williamson is entering his eighth NBA season with two All-Star appearances and, remarkably, zero postseason minutes.
That’s why nobody needs another promise about what’s coming.
The good news for New Orleans is that Williamson doesn’t sound particularly satisfied, either. Maybe that’s the best place to start.
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