Zion Williamson vows « different summer » after Pelicans miss playoffs for second straight season

Zion Williamson stood before the cameras Monday, the weight of another failed season evident in his voice. After seven NBA seasons without a single playoff appearance, the New Orleans Pelicans star is promising change. « I’m looking to take a different approach because it’s frustrating getting up here every year and not being in the playoffs — and I’ll take my responsibility in that, » Williamson said following the team’s 26-56 finish.

The numbers tell a story of individual progress overshadowed by collective failure. Williamson appeared in 62 games this season, setting a personal record with 35 consecutive appearances. Yet the Pelicans won just 22 of those 62 games, leaving them 15th in the Western Conference and well outside the play-in tournament picture.

« My play on the court — it was OK, » Williamson admitted, despite averaging 21 points per game. « I was efficient, but I don’t want to sit here and say it was OK and we’re not even in the Western Conference play-in tournament. Individually, I have a lot to go work on. »

A career defined by missed opportunities

The 25-year-old forward’s availability has been the defining narrative of his professional career. Since being drafted first overall from Duke in 2019, Williamson has missed 280 of 556 possible regular season games due to knee, hand, foot and soft tissue injuries. His durability this season represents significant progress, but the team’s struggles highlight deeper issues beyond his presence on the court.

« What I’m most proud of is how fast I was able to bounce back from any injuries that I had this year, » said Williamson, who could have played 65 games but was rested for the final three contests. The only other time he appeared in more than 30 games was during 2020-21, when he played 61.

Veteran guard Dejounte Murray praised Williamson’s commitment to his health. « Z — I think he’s getting it, » Murray said. « He’s got to continue to take care of his body, his mind, and his development is crucial, too. »

Despite trade speculation, Williamson reaffirmed his commitment to New Orleans. « New Orleans is home for me. I don’t say that because I’m sitting in front of these cameras, » he said, referencing his five-year contract worth close to $200 million with two seasons remaining. « When the offseason hits, a lot of guys leave the city. I live here. … I’ve been here since I was 19. »

Williamson expressed full confidence in executive vice president Joe Dumars, hired a year ago to reshape the franchise. « He has the resume, » Williamson said of the Hall of Famer’s championships as both player and general manager with Detroit. « So, somebody in my position, all I can do is ask questions and whatever information he has to give me, just take heed to it. »

Looking ahead, Williamson’s goals are ambitious but necessary. He wants to play 75 to 82 games next season and finally reach the playoffs. « I want to be able to attack from multiple areas on the court. I want to be able to be unpredictable on the offensive end, and I didn’t really do a good job of that this year, » he explained.

The path forward involves seeking wisdom from championship-level players and embracing accountability. « So, it’s time to start taking different approaches, gaining what knowledge I can and working on different things, » Williamson concluded. « I have to use the resources that I can to reach out and seek the information — seek the knowledge that I need. »