New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is ranked 51st in ESPN's projection of the NBA's best players for the 2026-27 season. This ranking, released this week, marks a significant fall for the former No. 1 overall pick who was once viewed as a future MVP. The Pelicans' recent form, including a 132-126 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on April 13, 2026, shows the team's current challenges.
Williamson's placement at No. 51 is based on predicted production for the upcoming regular season. He improved from No. 61 last year, but that's a small consolation. The ranking shows how dramatically expectations have shifted. He is no longer evaluated as a young superstar ready to dominate the league. Instead, he's being compared to solid starters and productive role players.
Last season, Williamson played 62 games, his second-highest total in seven years. That health didn't translate to dominance. He averaged a career-low 21 points per game. His usage rate also hit a career low as New Orleans tried to fit him into their offensive scheme.
When he reached the paint, Williamson was nearly unstoppable. He led all NBA players with at least 40 games by averaging 15.4 paint points per game. The problems occurred before and after those paint touches. He doesn't consistently stretch the floor, allowing defenders to clog the lane. His defensive limitations also create lineup issues for a Pelicans team needing reliable two-way production.
The athletic ability is still obvious. His overall impact, however, isn't overwhelming enough to cover his weaknesses. ESPN projects him to average 22.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.3 assists this season. Those are strong numbers, but they aren't dramatically different from several other forwards.
Williamson hasn't made an All-Star team since 2023. He'll turn 27 this season, so he can't be treated as a developing prospect anymore. The Pelicans need him to become a dependable franchise player right now. His teammate, Trey Murphy III, ranked 57th in the same ESPN projection. The two forwards are separated by only six spots despite entering the league with completely different expectations.
Murphy has become a valuable modern wing because he can shoot, defend and contribute without controlling the ball. Williamson needs the offense designed around his ability to attack the basket. That difference could eventually influence how New Orleans builds its roster.
The team's recent results highlight their struggles. Their last five games show a 1W-4L record (LLWLL), including losses in their last two outings. After a high-scoring 156-137 win over the Utah Jazz on April 8, 2026, they fell to the Orlando Magic 112-108 on April 5, 2026. They also lost to the Sacramento Kings 117-113 on April 4, 2026, and the Portland Trail Blazers 118-106 on April 3, 2026.
A healthy season where Williamson increases his scoring, improves defensively and leads New Orleans into the playoffs would move him significantly higher in future rankings. He remains one of the NBA's most recognizable players. He still has a combination of power, speed and touch few opponents can match. There is time for another surge, but the clock is ticking for the Pelicans star to reclaim his elite status.
