The performance of Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans in the semifinals of the In-Season Tournament was a clear disappointment, but both the player and team have played well since then. Williamson has also reportedly lost a considerable amount of weight since that time.
“I’ve got people in New Orleans telling me that since December when the In-Season Tournament happened, Zion Williamson has lost 25 or more pounds,” said Brian Windhorst on his podcast. “And his performance has been excellent. He’s playing fewer minutes and I think that helps as well, but I’ve got people telling me he’s lost 25 pounds. And I don’t mean like in the past where they say, ‘Oh, he’s added muscle’ and it’s like, ‘Has he?’ I’ve got people saying that he’s truly, for the first time, I feel weird even saying it, counting on Zion has been a losing proposition…”
In 56 games this season, Williamson is averaging 22.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.1 assists in 30.9 minutes.