The New Orleans Pelicans have learned they can’t rely on Zion Williamson to stay healthy. This week, they learned they can’t even rely on him to show up for a flight on time.
The Pelicans suspended Williamson for Friday’s game with the Philadelphia 76ers after he showed up significantly late for the team’s flight on Thursday. Williamson apologized to his teammates and to owner Gayle Benson, releasing a statement that said in part:
“There is no excuse for being late to team activities. I have apologized to Mrs. Benson and my teammates and coaches and I also owe an apology to the fans. I can and will be better as a teammate and member of this organization.”
But according to insider Chris Haynes, it’s not the first time Williamson has been late this season. The one-game suspension is not simply due to the flight, but to multiple practices where Williamson also showed up late.
Since the Pelicans selected Williamson with the No. 1 overall pick in 2019, there have been persistent questions about the All-Star forward’s habits and commitment. In 2021, Pelicans beat writer Jake Madison reported that Williamson regularly skipped rehab sessions for a foot injury that ended up costing him the entire season, while also falling asleep in film sessions.
At that same time, insiders reported that Williamson’s weight had ballooned to 330 pounds due to poor diet and inconsistent workouts. That’s well above his listed playing weight of 284 pounds.
This week, Williamson looked quite healthy in his first game of the series, scoring 22 points and throwing down spectacular dunks in the Pelicans’ 104-97 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Now that his health isn’t an issue for now, the Pelicans have to worry once again about Williamson’s mindset. Injuries are understandable. Persistent tardiness is not.
