NBA Rumors: Pelicans Will NOT Guarantee Zion Williamson Contract

At his exit interview last month, Zion Williamson said he would be quick to sign an extension with the New Orleans Pelicans when it's offered. But according to ESPN NBA Insider Brian Windhorst, that contract might not be to Zion's liking. 

After the young superstar missed the entire season, and has been able to play in just 37% of his team's games over his first three years, the Pelicans' brass are hesitant to go all-out on a guaranteed contract.

"The Pelicans, at this point are not willing to offer a full 5 year guaranteed deal... They will offer him a huge contract but will not guarantee all of it."

🔊 Brian Windhorst with Intel on the Pelicans' contract negotiations with Zion Williamsonpic.twitter.com/4dTbQ2uPvd

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) May 27, 2022

"From what I have been told," said Windhorst, "the Pelicans, at this point, are not willing to offer a full 5 year guaranteed deal... They will offer him a huge contract but will not guarantee all of it." 

A lot of it, says Windhorst, flows down from ownership. And if Zion doesn't sign it and demands a full guarantee... "we could have some drama into the fall."

Williamson has played in only 85 out of a possible 227 Pelicans games in his career due to a number of injuries and other health issues. When he has played, he's been a monster — averaging 27 points, 7.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists in his one partially full season (61 games). 

It was just announced by the team this week that Zion is finally ready for full basketball activities. If only there were some basketball activities still to be played this season for the Pelicans.