Zion Williamson has remained consistently healthy during the 2023-24 season and the New Orleans Pelicans are currently the fifth team in the Western Conference.
Despite that, many people are questioning the future of the Pelicans and their relationship with Williamson.
Stephen A. Smith laid out a stark, harsh criticism on Get Up Friday morning.
“It’s not about his game. It’s about how many burgers he’s eating and whether or not he’s going to be in shape or is he going to keep eating McDonald’s,” Smith said, via NBACentral.
“That’s what he has to prove, that the chefs don’t love him any longer,” he added.
Stephen A. Smith calls out Zion
"It’s not about his game. It's about how many burgers he's eating. Whether he is going to be in shape or keep eating McDonald's… That's what he has to prove, that the chefs don't love him any longer"
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) February 23, 2024
So far this season, Williamson is recording 22.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists on 58.5% from the floor.
Those are strong numbers and they have helped the Pelicans remain competitive.
Still, some people want more from Williamson and they believe he has a lot to prove, especially considering his past and his physical conditioning.
There have been numerous times when people have criticized how Williamson takes care of his body, particularly in the offseason when he has reportedly gained a good deal of weight.
Right now, the former number one draft pick looks healthy and in shape, proving that he has been resisting the chefs like Smith urged.
Still, rumors suggest that the team might choose to cut him loose this summer.
The Pelicans might not have the cash for the hefty paychecks of both Williamson and Brandon Ingram.
They may soon be left with a very difficult decision.
When they make it, will they consider Williamson’s past, his injuries, and the way he treats his body?
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