THE The New Orleans Pelicans look like a team that could be a serious contender in the Western Conference.
Of course, their ability to do so will depend on the status of star forward Zion Williamson.
Williamson struggled to stay healthy throughout his NBA career, playing 24, 61, 29 and 70 games in his first four years, respectively.
Last season was the 24-year-old’s best year. Unfortunately, in his team’s playoff game against the Los Angeles Lakers, he suffered another injury. He was unable to return for the team’s first-round playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Looking ahead to the 2024-25 NBA season, expectations are once again high for Williamson.
An NBA writer, Chris Dodson from Clutch pointsmade a big prediction for Williamson regarding the upcoming season. He believes Williamson will end up playing at least 70 games and averaging over 27 points per game.
During the 2023–24 season, Williamson averaged 22.9 points per game, along with 5.8 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.1 steals. He shot 57.0 percent overall and made 70.2 percent of his free throws.
Honestly, those numbers are extremely high. There is a chance he could reach them, but it doesn’t seem likely.
It would be more reasonable to think that Williamson averages 25 points per game and plays 70 games or more. This prediction is much more credible.
If he could average over 27 points per game, Williamson could become a potential MVP candidate.
Obviously, when he came into the NBA, he was expected to be an MVP. This season, perhaps, is when he begins to show what has made him one of the most talked about and hyped prospects in recent NBA history.
If so, 27 points per game might be reasonable.
All he needs to do is stay healthy all year and into the playoffs for the Pelicans to be able to play. The same type of production as last season would suit him just fine as long as he stays on the court.
Expect Williamson to have a big season. New Orleans has assembled a great team, but it all depends on the franchise’s image.
Let’s hope it lives up to the massive predictions and expectations listed above.
