Zion Williamson is a tremendous two-way forward with remarkable physical traits and instincts around the rim.
However, the New Orleans Pelicans star hasn’t solved his injury issue in the big leagues, prompting a former All-Star to predict that the Duke product won’t remain in the NBA for long.
“Zion’s going to retire in two years,” Jeff Teague said on the Club 520 podcast on Wednesday. “He’s always hurt and only plays 10 games a year.”
Williamson’s situation in New Orleans is captivating. The 24-year-old physical specimen is an automatic 20+ points per game scorer when he’s in the Pelicans’ lineup.
Whether bulldozing defenders after completing a sharp in-and-out dribble move on the perimeter, soaring for jaw-dropping slams in the half-court and transition, or forcing opponents to perform acrobatic layups in the paint, Williamson carries his weight on both ends.
However, the two-time All-Star has been in the NBA for six seasons, yet injuries have limited him to fewer than 300 regular-season contests.
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Still, even if the Pelicans decide to move on from Williamson in the near future, it isn’t realistic for the former ACC Player of the Year to move on from basketball in 2027.
With Williamson still in his prime, he’ll likely continue to work through his lower body setback problem and show critics he can be available when his team needs him most.
Williamson averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in 30 games this season, connecting on 56.7% of his field goals on the 21-61 Pelicans.
Expect the Salisbury, North Carolina native to extend his NBA career beyond the 2026-27 campaign.
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