The New Orleans Pelicans are doubling down on injury-plagued, sixth-year pro Zion Williamson, hoping he can be a more reliable and productive centerpiece in the years to come.

Pelicans announced they have suspended Zion Williamson for one game for a violation of team policies. Zion was reportedly late to team flight to Philadelphia which led to his suspension, per @ShamsCharania More here: https://t.co/FWjjqIQ9aT pic.twitter.com/sBVdd3f4z2

A few dead teams across the NBA are essentially playing for pride the rest of the way—New Orleans is one of said teams. A forgettable 2024-25 campaign began in the preseason when Dejounte Murray suffered the team’s first significant injury.

Zion Williamson spoke about Brandon Ingram being traded by the Pelicans and his feelings surrounding the move.

The New Orleans Pelicans made it through the NBA trade deadline without dealing Zion Williamson, although co-star Brandon Ingram was a victim of the league's craziest deadline ever. With Ingram getting traded to the Toronto Raptors, Williamson becomes the undoubted superstar in New Orleans, but that comes with some heavier expectations.

Pelicans’ superstar Zion Williamson has been one of their lone bright spots this season, especially after his return from injury. Of course, Zion was sidelined for over two months with a hamstring injury, but since returning he has been dominant.

Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans drives to the basket Wednesday.

There was a time when it seemed like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram were going to lead the next era of New Orleans Pelicans basketball, but