Contrary to what some pundits say, Zion Williamson will see action in his rookie year this 2019-20 NBA season. New Orleans Pelicans VP of Basketball Operations David Griffin quickly diffused rumors that this year’s number one overall pick might not see the floor this year after undergoing surgery to remove a piece of torn meniscus from his right knee.
Initial diagnosis revealed that Williamson could make his debut in six to eight weeks, but Griffin believes the former Duke standout could be back much sooner than timetable.
Griffin addressed some burning questions regarding his prized prospect during the Pelicans’ season opener versus the Dallas Mavericks on Friday.
David Griffin clears up Zion questions 🤔 pic.twitter.com/mGgHFF58Ia
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) October 26, 2019
Apart from making it clear that Williamson’s injury won’t affect him long term, Griffin also scoffed at the notion that Williamson’s weight and lack of conditioning put him at risk.
Officially listed at 6’6 and measured at 285 pounds, Williamson was registered as the heaviest non-center in the league.
A physical specimen since his highschool days in Spartnburg Day in South Carolina, many wondered if Williamson’s high-flying, “bully ball” play style will translate to the big leagues when he plays against bigger and equally athletic competition.
Williamson justified his top overall billing in the preseason, proving that he is indeed a cut above the rest by averaging 23.3 points, 6.5 boards, 2.3 assists, and 1.5 steals in four games.
The 19-year-old forward is expected to be New Orleans’ next franchise star after Anthony Davis bolted to the Lakers in the offseason. He joins a Pelicans team loaded with young talent in Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, and Lonzo Ball.
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