On a series of five consecutive defeats and only tenth in the West at the start of the season, the Pelicans are really in trouble. As a symbol, Zion Williamson is not the steamroller we expected, he who continues to find himself in the new offensive system of New Orleans.
21.6 points at 51.5% shooting in 31.5 minutes. If Zion Williamson’s stats this season remain solid, they have never been so weak since his arrival in the NBA in 2019. They are even in free fall compared to his offensive production last season (26 points, 7 rebounds and more than 4 passes at 61% success). And during this time, the Pels have a series of defeats.
Asked about this complicated period after the setback against Dallas on Sunday, Zion released an answer that risks getting people talking (via NOLA.com)
“Last year we had a team meeting. We pointed out the things I could do better. Particularly in terms of my integration into the project. It’s difficult at the moment. I’m taking a bit of a back seat. And I continue to trust the process. I do my best to adhere to the project.”
Zion Williamson doesn’t look too happy: “I’m trying my best to buy in right now.” pic.twitter.com/uyzuDRAe8M
— HoopsHype (@hoopshype) November 13, 2023
During the offseason, the Pelicans brought in former Charlotte coach James Borrego to become Willie Green’s assistant. An offensive-oriented coach, Borrego arrived to add rhythm and movement to the Pels’ attack, too based on the individual talents of Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum.
A change that visibly disturbs Zion today.
While the Pelicans have accelerated their pace of play, trying to move the ball more than before, Williamson can no longer find his place. The ball passes less through Zion, whether to score or facilitate the game, and this is reflected in his production/impact. Against the Mavericks the other night, Williamson was limited to just 11 shots (8 free throws), and made six turnovers in 27 minutes for four assists. Enough to increase frustration among the Pels phenomenon.
Zion isn’t happy here. His body language is completely different to see last 4 games. Winning makes everything better. But losing and not having the ball in your hands as much is even worse.
— ♠️????♠️ (@Mac_Roberts) November 13, 2023
The numerous absences affecting New Orleans today, and in particular that of leader CJ McCollum, do not make things easier either. From a global point of view, we have a team which is looking for itself and which is having difficulty finding itself. It is very complicated on both sides of the field.
While things should logically get better once the infirmary empties (if it ever empties…), it’s never a good sign to see a star player frustrated with his role. Zion Williamson probably imagined something else for this start of the season, especially since he is currently in good health.
What will Willie Green and James Borrego do to revive it?
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Source texte : NOLA.com
2023-11-14 11:56:00
#Zion #Williamson #seeks #place #Pelicans #offense
