Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans agreed to a supermax deal that could be worth up to $231 million. However, it is also filled with protections for the Pels that hinges on Zion actually staying healthy and playing games with the team.

While some players would hesitate about signing such deal, Zion apparently did not. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the explosive forward was actually happy with the deal.

“Zion Williamson was ecstatic to sign this new contract to stay in New Orleans.. this is a deal he wanted to get done,” Charania shared on The Pat McAfee Show.

Charania compared Zion Williamson's contract with the one Joel Embiid signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2017, one that included several protections such as games played and possibility of an injury. As for the Pelicans forward, Charania highlighted that Zion could get his $231 million guaranteed if he makes it to an All-NBA team in 2022-23.

Even if Zion doesn't reach the contract goals set for him next campaign, he'll still be paid handsomely. With that said, it's a win for him either way.

Nonetheless, it is worth noting that Williamson remains an All-Star. He is still a talented player and if he can stay healthy and get back to his usual, explosive self, it's not hard to see him competing for an All-NBA spot and the other accolades in the league.

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Thunder Pelicans prediction

Dominik Zawartko ·

Reggie Miller saying "Shai scorchin' the Pels!" with Shai shooting over Herb Jones

Chris Dodson ·

Graphic: David Griffin and Trajan Langdon saying "We're waiting" while Brandon Ingram looks dejected (head down) in the background. Maybe add 0-2 to show Pelicans are down in the series.

Chris Dodson ·

For now, though, Pelicans fans have to wait and see what Zion will do when he comes back. After he missed all of 2021-22, it is best to temper expectations for the youngster until he proves that he's better than ever.