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The New Orleans Pelicans struggled in the beginning of the 2021-22 season, going only 1-12 to start the year. Despite that, the Pelicans bounced back and managed to make the playoffs after going through the play-in tournament, and they also managed to force six games against the Phoenix Suns in the first round. Trading for CJ McCollum played a huge role in this push, which came despite Zion Williamson not playing a single game all season.
Regarding free agency, New Orleans has been very quiet so far, with the only new names coming through the draft. However, it does not mean the franchise is not making some noise this offseason. If new names are not coming, perhaps keeping the big names they already have is the key to success. That is exactly what happened with Zion.
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Pelicans' Best 2022 NBA Offseason Move
After some rumors about his commitment to New Orleans, Zion Williamson ended up signing a five-year extension worth up to $231 million. It might seem a lot for a player who has been injury-plagued since entering the league, but keeping Williamson long term was the right decision from the front office.
In his limited time on the court, the former Duke Blue Devil boasts averages of 25.7 points, 7.0 rebounds and 3.2 assists while shooting 60.4% from the field. Although he played only 85 total games in his first three seasons, Williamson proved he is more than capable of giving elite performances.
Even without Williamson, the team still managed to extend the series against the Suns and were two wins away from a Western Conference Semifinals appearance. Adding the power forward could have been the X-Factor to the Pelicans in that playoff run.
With Williamson secured for the next few years, New Orleans also keeps its core relatively intact for the future. Brandon Ingram remains as one of the most reliable and effective players on the roster, while McCollum is only 30 years old and can contribute for many seasons to come.
However, questions surrounding Williamson's health are still valid. Paying that amount of money for someone who has missed more than 100 games in his rookie contract can raise some questions. Still, a few players are able to say they signed big contracts despite being seriously injured. Most recently, Kevin Durant signed a max deal with the Brooklyn Nets after an Achilles injury, and Klay Thompson missed the first two seasons of his new deal with the Golden State Warriors.
Special players like Durant and Thompson showed their value to earn those deals, and the Pelicans believe their player showed his in the limited time he had on the court. In his only full season in the NBA, Williamson became one of the youngest All-Stars of all time, joining legends such Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.
If the Pelicans were one piece away of going further in the playoffs, keeping Williamson long term could be the solution for the near future. Adding him to a starting five with Ingram and McCollum will make New Orleans dangerous. Combined, they have the shooting from McCollum, the length and midrange shot from Ingram, plus Williamson's size and aggressiveness in the paint.
Although flying under the radar, this Pelicans team can make some noice in 2022-23. While unlikely to win a title, they can take away precious wins from other contenders, potentially affecting standings and playoff matchups. And for the future, New Orleans could be among the contenders for a title should Williamson stay healthy.
