Zion Williamson is poised to become a key figure in the NBA, especially as he continues to elevate his performance and health. At 24, he played a career-high 70 games last season, demonstrating his talent with stand out averages. His rare blend of skill, athleticism, and charisma places him among other rising stars like Luka Dončić and Giannis Antetokounmpo, helping shape the league’s future.
In the 2023-24 season, Williamson played in 70 games, marking a personal best. He averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. Despite the Pelicans reaching the postseason, they were eliminated by the top-seeded Thunder, and Williamson’s season was cut short again due to a hamstring strain during the Lakers’ play-in game.
Williamson has displayed moments of brilliance, showing the potential to become one of the NBA’s premier talents. However, his path to a championship might hinge on joining a team that can fully harness his abilities and maintain his health. A new start with a roster built around him could elevate him to the league’s elite and help unlock his full potential.
TRADE IDEA
PELICANS RECEIVE: Julian Champagnie, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2026 Swap Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick
SPURS RECEIVE: Zion Williamson
This trade gives the Pelicans a strong blend of players and future assets. Keldon Johnson, now a dependable scorer, offers an immediate offensive boost, while Jeremy Sochan brings versatility on defense, capable of guarding multiple positions. Champagnie adds valuable depth. The draft picks a first-rounder in 2025, another in 2027, and a swap in 2026 provide long-term flexibility for future moves. Given Williamson’s injury history, the Pelicans may favor the security of multiple reliable assets over a single high-risk, high-reward player.
For the Spurs, this deal could be transformative. Teaming up Victor Wembanyama and Zion Williamson would create one of the most physically imposing frontcourts in the NBA. Zion’s explosive interior scoring, paired with Wemby’s elite shot-blocking and versatility, would make life difficult for opposing defenses. Wembanyama already showed superstar potential last season, averaging 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and a league-leading 3.6 blocks per game. Adding Williamson’s 22.9 points and 5.8 rebounds per game (when healthy) would make the Spurs a powerful contender in the Western Conference.
The Spurs also have Chris Paul on a one-year deal to guide this young team. His experience in running an offense would enhance the potential of a Zion-Wemby pairing, creating a lethal pick-and-roll threat. With Paul’s leadership and the immense talent of Wembanyama and Williamson, the Spurs could make a rapid return to playoff contention, ending their rebuild much sooner than expected.
