New Orleans Pelicans: How Zion's return will affect the Pels

New Orleans Pelicans: How Zion’s return will affect the Pels

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 25: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans walks on the court during introductions prior to the game against the Dallas Mavericks at Smoothie King Center on October 25, 2019 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images) /

3. Shooting percentage

Williamson is not known for his ability to shoot a basketball. Much like LeBron James coming into the NBA, teams are likely to try to force his hand, keeping Zion away from the basket. Therefore, the Pelicans shooting percentage will likely not increase simply due to Williamson stepping on the hardwood.

However, knowing where Williamson’s other gifts reside — attacking the basket, rebounding, put-backs, etc. — opponents will have to double team him. There’s simply no other way of stopping the absolute freak of nature. While there are other members in the NBA of insane body structure and capabilities, few possess the raw physical tools Williamson does. Therefore, protecting the rim with multiple bodies is likely the only solution.

Opposing teams and players facing Zion are going to lose sleep at night due to the exploratory bullying they are about to receive. The knee-jerk reaction is then to sag, drop back and make him beat multiple players to the rim.

Each team's best era. dark. Next

The obvious advantage the Pelicans take here is that someone is bound to be open. While shooting struggles have plagued the young franchise early on in the 2019-20 season, open shots will come aplenty when Zion returns. And with the aforementioned ball-movement, New Orleans will find the open man.

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