Looking back, the in-season tournament was a turning point for the New Orleans Pelicans this season. It certainly was for Zion Williamson, followed by harsh criticism of his defense, effort, and conditioning. While some crossed a line, the sentiment was real. Williamson was out of shape. His athleticism and focus on both ends hadn’t matched previous seasons.
Since their embarrassing loss to the Lakers in early December, the Pelicans are 10-5 with the league’s best net rating (+12.4). Notably, New Orleans’ defensive rating since then ranks second in the league (109.6), only trailing Philadelphia. Before that, their defense placed in the middle of the pack.
Williamson’s defensive effort to begin the season was problematic, to say the least. Off-ball defense was the major issue, as offenses punished Zion’s often lackadaisical effort on that end. Cutters slipped behind and in front of him without resistance and throwing screening actions at Zion was almost free points on some nights.
Closeout defense may have been the most damaging issue, as the Pelicans’ aggressive defensive scheme necessitates defenders to rotate actively. When the ball swung to Williamson’s side, slashers easily drove past him as Zion wasn’t working hard to close.
In January, the effort is markedly better. Some of the issues are still present, as defenses can exploit Zion’s footspeed and motor on skip passes and backdoor cuts. But the lapses are less frequent and Williamson flexes his playmaking muscle more frequently. With rockets in his shoes, Williamson excels as a weak-side rim protector. Few NBA players are more fearsome flying towards the rim, saving points when perimeter defenders lose their matchups.
Given the Pelicans’ struggles protecting the rim against downhill-oriented offenses, Williamson’s increased effort has been critical in protecting the rest of his teammates on that end. An athlete of his caliber should be an impactful rim defender. Zion actualizing that skill is encouraging.
Zion slides more effectively on the ball, adding to his improvements as an off-ball defender. At his worst, teams matchup hunt Zion as a result of his poor footspeed and technique. But when Zion locks in, he can be deadly. The feet and hips are nimble and responsive and his strength is a major asset. Dislodging Williamson on drives is a challenge, even for strong slashers.
At the moment, Zion Williamson’s defense is solid. Though it isn’t otherworldly, solid is a substantial jump from where he began the season. Before, Zion’s presence actively hurt New Orleans’ defense. Now, he adds value with his playmaking while Herb Jones, Dyson Daniels and company can shine. The development is notable, especially if Williamson can maintain his effort and conditioning into the postseason.
Analysis by Ben Pfeifer
For more content, visit HITP Sports on YouTube or HITP Sports online.
READ MORE
- Pelicans Head to Dallas for Texas Two-Step Versus Mavericks
- As Decision Looms on Valanciunas’ Future, His Contributions Are Greater Than Ever
- Mile High Mission: Pelicans Can Tie Franchise Road Streak Record With Win Over Nuggets
- A Healthy Larry Nance Jr. Brings a Bit of Everything to The Pelicans
- Dethroning Kings Would Be A Great Start to Pelicans’ 5-Game Road Trip
- Trigga’d: Trey Murphy III’s Elite Shooting Sparks Pelicans
- Surging Pelicans Face Clippers with Both Teams Riding 4-Game Win Streaks
- Where Brooklyn At?: Pelicans Begin New Year Hunting 3rd Straight Victory
- Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, Pelicans Coaches Must Do Better to Reverse Late-Game Woes
- Jordan Hawkins’ Flight Path Hasn’t Been Smooth, But He’s Still Ascending
- New Orleans Pelicans’ Attack Ramps Up; Long-Range Shooting Spike May Be Here to Stay
