Zion Williamson appears set to remain with the New Orleans Pelicans for the foreseeable future after a number of meetings he’s had with incoming vice president of basketball operations Joe Dumars. The future of Williamson with the Pelicans has been uncertain over the past few seasons dating back to his inclusion in trade rumors at the 2023 draft for Scoot Henderson along with some hints David Griffin was prepared to listen to trade offers this year.
But with Dumars taking over the front office and Williamson representing the Pelicans at the lottery in Chicago, the messaging from both sides has indicated he would continue with the franchise.
“I’ve had really good conversations with Zion,” Dumars said on Wednesday. “We’ve had lunch. Dinner. Watched playoff games together. We’ve done it all. I’ve had some real honest conversations with him. Some real direct and honest conversations.
“We’re going to go forward with Zion. He’s going to continue to be a focal point here as we go forward.”
Dumars also spoke about his decision to have Williamson at the lottery in a public facing role.
“I sent him to the lottery for a reason,” Dumars said. “I want him to start focusing on the responsibilities of being the best player here and the focal point. There are some responsibilities that come with that. Go represent your organization.”
Dumars’ decision to go public with his intent to build the roster around Williamson comes a few days after a lawsuit was filed against the Pelicans’ star accusing him of rape and assault.