In the nine career games he has played against the LA Clippers, Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans has a 7-2 win-loss record. Overall, he averages 22.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, shooting 57.8% from the floor.
Through the development of a conclusion from these statistics and wins, it is safe to say Williamson has owned the Clippers since beginning his professional career in 2020. On the opposite side, head coach Tyronn Lue's only chance at containing him is by trusting Ivica Zubac to keep up.
Despite being an undersized power forward at six feet six, Williamson will jump over the paint and finish the most acrobatic layups, sometimes while being fouled. The former first-overall pick's combination of strength and speed is something lab scientists would not be able to figure out, as his vertical often has people within the NBA community questioning the laws of gravity.
Additionally, Williamson has collected two All-Star appearances in five seasons and would have more if he had overcome his health issues.
Moreover, Clippers' executive Lawrence Frank has seen Williamson succeed against his team several times. This was enough to pursue the star in the offseason, but the Pelicans have reportedly taken the Duke product off the table in talks for a blockbuster deal.
A credible NBA insider reports the New Orleans Pelicans have removed Zion Williamson from the trade market
The New Orleans Pelicans are in the strange phase of a rebuild, making it reasonable to restart their journey in the offseason by trading their most valuable pieces. They already shipped Brandon Ingram, so why not load up on assets and culture-changing veterans with Zion Williamson on the trade block?
Conversely, Jake Fischer, a credible NBA source, shut down rumors of any team hounding Williamson this summer. Despite major health concerns, New Orleans still believes he is a star to build around.
Furthermore, Williamson is certainly a franchise player, but only when he is available. This has been his most notable flaw, as he has never played in a New Orleans playoff game and has played under 35 games in three out of his six seasons under contract. The two-time All-Star also missed an entire season in 2021-22 to rehabilitate from a foot injury.
That said, with the Pelicans taking their beloved star off the market, the Clippers' front office must research other viable options that meet their needs.