After a lengthy hiatus, Zion Williamson made a spectacular comeback, but he will miss his next game for an unspecified reason. The former No. 1 overall pick got a one-game suspension from the New Orleans Pelicans for violating team rules. Nobody saw this coming mostly because Williamson is one of the most important players for the Pelicans.
However, former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins chimed in on this ongoing situation between the Pelicans and Williamson. Perkins does not seem to approve of Williamson’s addition to the Pelicans’ squad anymore. He took to his X account to make his feelings known regarding the Pelicans player.
I’ve been saying it time for New Orleans to part ways with Zion.
Kendrick Perkins wrote on X
Zion Williamson was suspended before the pivotal road game against the 76ers, and the Pelicans handed up the one-game penalty prior to traveling to Philadelphia. In a statement, Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin discussed the matter. He said that Williamson’s failure to satisfy “team standards” was the reason for the suspension.
I’ve been saying it time for New Orleans to part ways with Zion. https://t.co/mVpVCMd0zR
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) January 11, 2025
According to reports, the former No. 1 draft pick has missed several practices this season besides the team’s journey to Philadelphia. The one-game punishment resulted from these incidents. The Pelicans regarded this behavior as something that violated the team policy. Later, Williamson also issued a public apology for his behavior.
Zion Williamson issues ‘public apology’ for his recent behavior
New Orleans Pelicans star man Zion Williamson’s suspension showcases that the franchise won’t take things lightly regarding any misconduct. Williamson’s behavior was not up to the mark of the franchise’s demands and was suspended for 1 game. Regarding his suspension, the Pelicans star issued a public apology to the fans.
I take full responsibility for this suspension. I’ve worked extremely hard in rehab to get healthy to deliver for this team. There is no excuse for being late to team activities. I have apologized to Mrs. Benson and my teammates and coaches and I also owe an apology to the fans. I can and will be better as a teammate and member of this organization.
Zion Williamson said
Statement from David Griffin:
“This one game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards. His dedication to this organization is of paramount significance to us and to him. He has taken accountability for his actions and reaffirmed that commitment to the team…
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) January 10, 2025
Aside from this, Williamson scored 22 points in a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, showcasing his elusive skills with a highlight-reel 360-degree dunk that went viral on social media. He has missed over 255 games since joining the league as the first overall pick in 2019 because of injuries, including missing the whole 2021 campaign because of a fractured foot.
On 47 percent shooting, the two-time NBA All-Star is averaging 22.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. Pelican supporters, who have even contemplated backing the team if they were to trade him, are still frustrated by his inability to sustain extended periods of availability. It remains to be seen if any such trades happen soon.
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