5. What’s the deal with Zion Williamson
Last but certainly not least, the strangest story of the NBA season thus far has centered around Zion Williamson.
There was so much hype and excitement around Zion after he ended last season on such a high note. Heading into this season, NBA analysts and fans were super high Zion and the Pelicans. Some even believed he could make an All-NBA team and lead New Orleans to the postseason..
Then, seemingly out of nowhere, news broke on the first day of training camp — Sept. 27 — that Zion had fractured his foot and needed surgery on an unspecified date over the summer.
However, New Orleans Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin said Zion would be ready for opening night:
"“His timeline should get him back on the court prior to the season. That would be our hope. That would be our view. We’re very optimistic about what that looks like.” … Shortly after that, Zion himself said: “I expect to be back for the first game. The first official game, I should say.”"
Well, 24 games into the Pelicans season and Zion has yet to play a single second. Even worse, the Pelicans announced Thursday that Zion’s return has been delayed because of soreness in his surgically repaired right foot. It should be noted that the team doesn’t believe this to be a major issue, but are just proceeding with caution with Zion.
It’s crazy to think that Zion Williamson, the same player that was regarded as the next superstar in the NBA, has played just 85 games in three years in the NBA. When he’s been on the floor he’s shown why NBA experts and fans salivate over his potential, but he always seems to be hurt.
Zion’s return remains a question for now, but the bigger question is whether or not he’ll stay in New Orleans.
There have been multiple reports that have stated that Zion is unhappy with the organization. Could we see Zion become the first player in NBA history to not sign the rookie max extension? Probably not due to his injury history but it is something to keep an eye on as the season progresses.