Former first overall pick almost traded to the New York Knicks

With New York being the largest media market in the world and often referred to as the "Mecca" of basketball, it is quite surprising that they have not been able to acquire any major marquee superstars since they signed Carmelo Anthony in 2011. This is not for lack of trying, as over the last few seasons, they have been linked with players such as Kevin Durant, Donovan Mitchell, and Damian Lillard. It seems this past offseason was no different, as reports emerged that they almost traded for former number 1 overall pick Zion Williamson.

Williamson has been an internet mega-star ever since highlight reels of him in high school emerged. After being drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans, he has backed up the hype by averaging 26 points, 7 rebounds, and 4.6 assists on a 60% field goal percentage. Despite his talents, the New Orleans Pelicans were apparently ready to part ways with the forward due to injury concerns and their interest in draft prospect Scoot Henderson at the time.

We are not sure how far along trade discussions went, but it was revealed on The Knicks Recap Podcast that the Pelicans are not fully sold on Zion Williamson. There were reportedly 14 teams checking in on the availability of the superstar, but most notably, the New York Knicks who have been linked with Williamson ever since the NBA Draft.

The Knicks 'checked in' about Zion Williamson this offseason.@NYPost_Berman on The Knicks trading for a star: "New Orleans is still not sold on Zion Williamson. Obviously there's a risk there, all eyes on him this season. I was told the Knicks checked in over the offseason pic.twitter.com/Px5HcEJA4l— The Knicks Recap (@TheKnicksRecap) October 5, 2023

The Pelicans View on Williamson

Williamson is clearly capable of becoming an NBA superstar; the only concern is his health. Since being drafted, Zion has missed more games than he has played. Even last year, he only managed to play 29 games before getting injured. It is easy to see why the Pelicans are considering moving Zion, given his many injuries in his short 4-year NBA career. However, considering that when healthy, the Pelicans are one of the best teams in the Western Conference and were the number 3 seed, winning 18 out of the 29 games Williamson played in, they may be better off remaining patient.

This situation is similar to the start of Joel Embiid's career, as he remained injury-prone for several seasons upon entering the league. Yet, Philadelphia was patient, and it seems to have paid off for them, with Embiid winning his first MVP award last season.

With Zion only 23 years old and the pelicans other star Brandon Ingram only 26 the window of opportunity for the pelicans remains firmly wide open yet do not be surprised if they look to move on from Zion this upcoming season for assets to help them win more immediately.

you can see Zion's highlights from last season, college and High School Below.




Credits
Bleacher Report