Pelicans Expect Zion Williamson Leadership Growth Amidst Team Rebuild

The New Orleans Pelicans are entering the 2025-26 NBA season with renewed hope and a focus on Zion Williamson's leadership and health. Despite a difficult 2024-25 season marked by injuries and only 21 wins, the team sees potential for improvement with Williamson now taking on more responsibility as a leader, as emphasized by new basketball operations head Joe Dumars. Dumars stressed accountability and responsibility as key for Williamson, noting that talent alone is insufficient for greatness. Williamson himself expressed feeling better than he has since college and a commitment to fulfilling whatever role the team needs. Head coach Willie Green and observers have noted Williamson's increased leadership and physical readiness, raising optimism among fans and the organization. The Pelicans also bolstered their roster with new additions, aiming to build a deeper and more competitive team.