The New Orleans Pelicans are doubling down on injury-plagued, sixth-year pro Zion Williamson, hoping he can be a more reliable and productive centerpiece in the years to come.

Williamson had a historic performance in Saturday's loss, becoming the first player in NBA history to record 40+ points, 4+ assists, and 2+ steals while shooting over 76% from the field and playing 28 minutes or less, via Stathead.

A few dead teams across the NBA are essentially playing for pride the rest of the way—New Orleans is one of said teams. A forgettable 2024-25 campaign began in the preseason when Dejounte Murray suffered the team’s first significant injury.