A drama seems to have unfolded for the New Orleans Pelicans with the start of training camp just a few days away. Star forward Zion Williamson reportedly isn't communicating much with general manager David Griffin as he was displeased with the way the team handled his rookie year.
To recall, Williamson was hampered by a hamstring injury in the NBA Bubble. The no. 1 overall pick of the Pelicans unexpectedly left the tournament and he wasn't happy with the limited minutes he was given. In an effort to inspire the team, Griffin went by the book—quite literally.
In a report by Christian Clark of NOLA.com, it was revealed that Griffin gave each Pelicans player a copy of a popular novel.
Griffin distributed copies of “The Alchemist,” an international bestseller by Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, which follows a young shepherd named Santiago on his search for treasure. The idea at the heart of Coelho’s fable is expressed clearly in the book: “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.”
Phil Jackson, is that you?
Well, clearly, Griffin's attempt didn't work for the Pelicans, who stumbled to a 31-41 record last season to miss the NBA Playoffs for the third straight year. While Williamson played much better, earning his first All-Star nod, there just wasn't enough—wait for it—alchemy within the squad.
The Pelicans will look quite different season with new coach Willie Green and new acquisitions Jonas Valanciunas and Tomas Satoransky, so perhaps Griffin should give all the players a chemistry book.
Follow Us
Subscribe