As the New Orleans Pelicans brace for the upcoming NBA season, a significant shift in strategy seems imminent. The buzz around the team involves Zion Williamson potentially stepping in as the opening-night starting center, a role that could redefine his career trajectory and the team’s dynamics.
Standing at 6-foot-6, Williamson is not the prototypical center. Traditionally listed as a power forward and often functioning more as a wing, his potential move to the center position raises questions about the implications for the Pelicans. Williamson's prowess is not typically associated with significant rebounding or rim protection, both critical aspects of the center’s role. However, his overall performance trajectory shows considerable promise.
During the 2023-24 season, Williamson turned a crucial corner in his career. In the best shape of his career, Williamson showed that he could handle heavy minutes, carry a significant playmaking load, and compete defensively like never before. This metamorphosis was evident as he appeared in a career-high 70 regular-season games, a testament to his growing resilience and consistency.
One critical moment underscored Williamson's evolving significance to the Pelicans. While executing a crucial floater over Anthony Davis during a high-stakes play-in game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Williamson strained his hamstring. "The shot gave him 40 points; on one of the biggest stages of his career, he had come through with one of his finest games, leading a fourth-quarter comeback that would fall short after he checked out," recounted James Herbert. This incident highlighted both his critical role and the physical strains he endures.
The offseason shake-up in the NBA saw several key players on the move. Paul George left the Los Angeles Clippers, signing with the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency after five years in Los Angeles. "And so, five years after returning home to Los Angeles, George packed his bags and signed with Philadelphia in free agency," articulated Jack Maloney. Additionally, Donovan Mitchell reached career highs in assists, rebounds, and steals, demonstrating his all-around improvement and critical contributions to his team's success.
Elsewhere in the league, Kawhi Leonard played 68 games last season, reflecting a strong return from previous injury concerns. Jaylen Brown's remarkable playoff run was marked by his ability to hit pivotal shots in critical moments. "He stamped his status with a spectacular playoff run, in which he hit the two biggest shots: the game-tying 3-pointer in the waning seconds of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals and the game-sealing jumper in Game 3 of the Finals," stated Maloney.
Devin Booker assumed the role of point guard for a Phoenix Suns team that was notably lacking in that department. "Booker has arguably become one of the most underrated players in the league and among the most efficient," praised Jasmyn Wimbish. Additionally, Anthony Edwards had a standout season, leading the Timberwolves to the Western Conference finals and playing a pivotal role in Team USA’s gold medal victory over the summer.
Kevin Durant, too, had a notable season, averaging 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists on 41% three-point shooting. Durant’s 75-game appearance was his highest since leaving Golden State, underscoring his enduring impact and versatility on the court. Meanwhile, LeBron James continued to defy age-related expectations. The 2024 Olympics saw James become the oldest player to win an MVP award in any competition featuring active NBA players. "Sure, it's unreasonable to expect the impending quadragenarian to be the NBA's best player over the course of an 82-game season anymore, but make no mistake, in a smaller sample, there still might not be a single player in all of basketball that inspires more fear in his opponents than LeBron James," encapsulated editor Sam Quinn.
The Boston Celtics enjoyed another triumphant season, clinching their league-leading 18th championship. Jayson Tatum spearheaded their success, making the All-NBA First Team for three consecutive seasons. Notably, Tatum passed Kobe Bryant for the most playoff points before turning 27, a remarkable achievement that solidifies his place among the game's elite. During their championship run, Tatum led his team in points, rebounds, and assists, showcasing his all-around excellence and leadership.
As the new season unfolds, all eyes will be on how these players and teams adapt and evolve. The potential of Zion Williamson taking on the center role for the Pelicans adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, highlighting the constant innovation and strategic shifts that define the NBA.