Pelicans Make It Clear To Zion Williamson That It’s Time To Shape Up

January 12, 2025

The Pelicans made a statement to Zion Williamson on Friday night – one that had been a long time coming, as written by Rod Walker of NOLA.com.

Instead of keeping his absence quiet and simply leaving him on the bench, New Orleans chose to go public with a one-game suspension, sending a clear message about accountability.

Zion’s suspension reportedly stemmed from his late arrival to Thursday’s flight, but it seems like this wasn’t an isolated incident. Multiple sources have pointed to issues with tardiness, including arriving late to practices.

Head coach Willie Green confirmed as much, pointing to “several occasions” leading up to the decision.

It’s clear that the Pelicans are serious about ensuring Williamson’s commitment, especially as the team looks to salvage its season. While his 22-point, five-rebound performance in his return earlier this week showcased the kind of impact he can make on the court, New Orleans needs him to be all in – physically, mentally, and on time.

After all, this is a player who has battled injuries throughout his career and has faced questions about his conditioning. But when he’s locked in, like we saw Tuesday, he’s an absolute force.

For the Pelicans, this suspension isn’t just about discipline – it’s about setting the tone for the rest of the season. The team needs Zion at his best, and the clock is ticking.

It’s time for him to show the organization and the fans that he’s ready to embrace the responsibility that comes with being the face of this franchise. The talent is undeniable; now it’s about consistency.