Why Zion Williamson can be lethal for the Pelicans in the NBA’s bubble
3. Physicality
Zion’s physical presence is no secret. His 6’6″, 285-pound frame effectively gives the Pelicans a linebacker-like figure who has the skills of a point guard. Zion is the most talked-about rookie obviously for his basketball skill set but also for his monstrous body. Just that would be enough to scare opposing players, but Zion knows how to handle himself on the court, on both ends.
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This Pelicans side doesn’t have many physically intimidating figures on it, and Zion will bring that scare factor. There’s plenty of offense on this team, which has struggled more on the defensive end for most of the season. Zion still has plenty to add to his game from a defensive standpoint, but when he finally returned from injury earlier in the season, he showed that he can be very effective on both ends.
Offensively, Zion’s ability to slash and finish at the rim is only backed up by his physical nature. His athleticism has become apparent over the years and in his 19 games this season, he’s shown that it translates perfectly to the next level. The Pelicans are going to have to be physical down the stretch, and Zion’s return will boost their ability to do so.