The Pelicans and star forward Zion Williamson have reportedly reached an agreement on a five-year contract extension that will keep Williamson in New Orleans for the next six years. The deal could be worth up to $231 million. Fox Sports’ Rob Parker says it was a no-brainer for both sides.
“I think the franchise is looking up and if (Zion) wants to be there, you should sign him,” said Parker. “And from Zion’s side, he’s had injury issues. What would you be waiting on? I think this was a match made in heaven.”
Williamson’s deal reportedly contains protections for both the team and the player. Zion has played in just 85 of a possible 226 games over his career so far, and Parker says that even with his injury history, the Pelicans’ potential reward is worth the risk of nearly a quarter of a billion dollars.
“He has been injured,” he said. “But, when he’s played he’s been off the charts. And if you’ve got a guy who can play like that, be off the charts, and wants to be in New Orleans, I think you gotta sign him.”
The NBA’s free agency frenzy has begun, though while other teams are overhauling their rosters the Pelicans are adding Williamson to a core that pushed the Phoenix Suns to six games in the playoffs. The Western Conference is always stacked, but Parker believes the Pels are poised for another postseason run.
“It’s going to be real tough, but I expect them to make at least the playoffs and have a chance to win a series,” Parker said. “I do think that they’re that talented.”
Williamson’s extension can’t be officially announced until July 6.
Comments