METAIRIE, La. (AP) — When Zion Williamson finished his first full-court, five-on-five work since returning to practice last week, he spent extra one-on-one time with assistant coach Fred Vinson on the free throw line.
Ultimately, the Pelicans will require Williamson to successfully make crucial free throws sooner rather than later.
Coach Alvin Gentry refrained from giving a specific date for Williamson’s NBA regular season debut, although he practically ruled out the Wednesday night’s game against Chicago. However, he mentioned that Williamson generally appeared “fine” during practice.
“Conditioning is clearly the main focus, but you retain your game sense, and he’s an excellent and willing passer, so all those elements will be present,” said Gentry. “You need to get into basketball shape in terms of conditioning, and that will be a process.”
Gentry added, “He is excited to join his teammates who are equally enthusiastic for his return. However, we must follow a gradual process to ensure things are done correctly. There’s no specific date set, but we’re hopeful it will be soon.”
The Pelicans are set to host the Bulls, before heading out for away games in New York on Friday, Boston on Saturday, and Detroit on Monday. They will then return home for a match against Utah on Jan. 16. If the Pelicans are hoping for Williamson to make his debut in New Orleans, either this match, or the next one against the visiting Los Angeles Clippers on Jan. 18, could be possible options.
“Gentry stated that their focus is to ensure everything is properly set up and not to rush the process. He also confirmed that once Williamson starts playing, there will certainly be limitations on his playing time,” he added.
“Clearly, he won’t instantly become a player who’s on for 30 minutes a game,” said Gentry. “Progress will be slow in reaching the amount of game time everyone wants to see.”
Lonzo Ball, a guard for the Pelicans, has been performing exceptionally lately, with four consecutive games scoring over 20 points. He anticipates that the upcoming return of Williamson will be “amazing,” especially beneficial to his own game.
“Ball said our games simply enhance one another. He described Williamson as a large, physical presence during a break. Ball further explained that when utilizing Williamson’s 6-foot-6, 285-pound frame to set screens, ball-handlers have several options.”
“Shooters will definitely benefit a lot because people will be drawn towards Williamson, and he will execute the right moves,” Ball stated.
E’Twaun Moore, an experienced guard, referred to Williamson as a “freak athlete”. He further commented that it was encouraging to see him back in action on the court, interacting with the team.
