Former NBA Player Believes Pelicans Zion Williamson Could Win The NBA MVP
New Orleans, LA - Pelicans star Zion Williamson has one focus for this upcoming season......WIN. During the team's Media Day, Williamson gave this answer on his outlook for this impending year. Zion needs to be healthy and on the court as much as possible to win. One former NBA guard thinks Williamson can win the MVP if he stays healthy.
On his Gil's Arena Podcast, the outspoken Gilbert Arenas shared his expectations for Zion this season. "MVP. He's going to be in the MVP race if they're winning," Arenas said. During his NBA career, Agent Zero battled with injuries during the latter part of his career.
Arenas played at least 80 games in three out of his first five years in the NBA. In contrast, Williamson's career-high for games played in a season is 61 in his first four years. Zion appeared on Arenas' podcast during the summer to talk about dieting, his health, and injuries early in his career.
Williamson admitted it's hard to diet as a young player properly, but he's committed to doing so. "Bron's got the blueprint. I'm going to try my best to follow it." Zion's reference was to LeBron James, who famously spends upwards of $1 million a year to care for his body. The results clearly show that James is entering the 21st year of his career.
Nov 2, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (6) shoots against New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) during overtime at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Williamson is making strides to follow in James' footsteps. Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin highlighted Zion's progress in taking care of himself. At Media Day, he told reporters, "This was the first summer we've seen Zion take his profession seriously like that and invest in it off the court on his own in a way that I think is meaningful."
Williamson suffered a hamstring injury in January that ended his season after playing 29 games. Despite another short season of play for Zion, he averaged 26 points, seven rebounds, and nearly five assists. Williamson was named an all-star for the second time in his career. Zion still feels there is more to accomplish, and staying healthy is one of them.
"Worked on movements, stayed in New Orleans for a good part of the summer working with the Pels, and being on the same page with them and my personal trainers. But just really locking into every aspect of my body," Williamson said.
The results of his hard work will manifest soon enough as the Pelicans season starts October 25 in Memphis. For Zion and the Pelicans to be successful, Williamson must remain healthy and play at the same high level he has been. The wins and MVP consideration will take care of themselves.
