Zion Williamson, the 2019 NBA number one overall pick, was once hailed as the most hyped prospect since LeBron James.
After dominating high school and Duke University with highlight dunks and elite athleticism, Williamson was selected by the New Orleans Pelicans to become the face of the franchise.
However, his career has been plagued by injuries, limiting him to just 190 games out of a possible 361. He’s only managed to play 30 or more games in two of his five seasons, with his highest single-season appearance count being 70. Despite his injury struggles, when on the court, he remains one of the most talented players in the league.
In fact, Williamson made the All-Star team both times he played 60 or more games. In one of his most memorable performances, he scored 40 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and dished out five assists on 63% shooting in the Pelicans’ Play-In Tournament loss after last season. Now, the Pelicans seem ready to part ways with their 24-year-old forward. Could the Chicago Bulls be the ones to snatch up this potential superstar?
Bulls Among Teams Linked to Williamson
In a recent article by Bobby Marks and Tim MacMahon, they discussed what some consider “the most difficult question in the NBA”—what will the Pelicans do with Zion Williamson? According to several league executives, New Orleans may look to move on from the two-time All-Star and focus on younger assets or future draft picks.
The potential trade partner would have to be willing to take a chance on Williamson, despite his injury history and hefty salary. Sound familiar? NBA front offices believe that Zach LaVine could be the key piece in such a trade.
LaVine, like Williamson, has battled injuries but has proven himself with two All-Star appearances and a bit more postseason experience. Both players share similar profiles, with lucrative contracts for the next few seasons. With the Pelicans struggling at 5-28 and sitting last in the Western Conference standings, a trade for LaVine could potentially turn their season around or help build for the future.
Trade Deal Likely to Require Young Assets
This potential trade will not happen without Chicago offering significant future assets. This could include their new first-round pick, Matas Buzelis, or future first-round picks. Simply trading LaVine will not be enough to entice the Pelicans to part with their star forward.
For the Bulls, adding Williamson at any cost could be a game-changer. With no clear direction or solidified stars on their roster, bringing Zion on board could infuse fresh energy and excitement into the franchise.
“I would absolutely try to trade for Zion,” said one analyst. “The Bulls need someone who could be the best player on a title team. The odds of Zion becoming that may be low, but there’s a non-zero chance. Without any other realistic avenues to find that guy, I’d buy on Zion while he’s available.”
With months ahead filled with trade rumors, the Bulls could find themselves at the center of a bidding war for Williamson if the Pelicans decide to go in a different direction.
