Pelicans struggle as Zion’s triple-double fails to impress Shaq
The New Orleans Pelicans continue to flounder this season with an 18-48 record through 66 games, placing them second-to-last in the Western Conference.
They’ve managed a .500 record in their last 10 outings, most recently beating the Clippers 127-120 on Tuesday night.
Zion Williamson put up his second career triple-double with 22 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists in the win. But not everyone was impressed.
“You giving him props for that? I need more,” TNT analyst Shaquille O’Neal said bluntly after the game. “Anybody can get 20 points now. That’s not good enough. I’m not impressed by that.”
Shaq believes Zion should be scoring closer to 30 points per game as the franchise cornerstone.
C.J. McCollum actually led the Pelicans in scoring against the Clippers, dropping 23 points while shooting a solid 8-for-16 from the field and 5-for-9 from three-point range.
For Zion, Tuesday marked just his 27th appearance this season. His availability continues to be the elephant in the room for New Orleans.
Both of his career triple-doubles have come in the last six games, showing flashes of his all-around potential. But Shaq isn’t buying it.
O’Neal insists Williamson needs to be scoring 26-28 points every night to truly lead the franchise. Zion’s currently averaging 24.4 points per game this season, slightly below his career average of 24.6.
The bigger issue? Staying on the court.
Williamson has played 60+ games just twice in his six-year career. He completely missed the 2021-22 season due to injury and has suited up for only 211 total games as a Pelican.
The former #1 overall pick’s story remains the same – tantalizing talent constantly interrupted by health concerns.
New Orleans hosts the Orlando Magic next on Thursday night as they play out the remainder of a disappointing season.
