Zion Williamson is generating significant optimism for the New Orleans Pelicans after reporting to training camp in what the team calls "impeccable condition." The star forward, now in his eighth NBA season, has slimmed down and impressed new head coach Jamahl Mosley with his work ethic and physical readiness. This positive update arrives as the Pelicans continue their preseason slate, coming off a 101-97 win over the Dallas Mavericks on October 14.
Williamson's weight and fitness have been a recurring preseason storyline for years. This time, he reported to camp at 277 pounds, a notable drop from the 284 pounds listed in prior seasons. Pelicans basketball operations chief Joe Dumars praised his condition, and analyst Tim MacMahon noted on a podcast that Mosley is "very excited about the way Zion’s been working." For a player who has missed 278 games over seven seasons due to injuries, starting a campaign in peak shape is a major step. His ability to stay on the court is the single biggest factor for the Pelicans' success.
When available, Williamson remains a highly efficient offensive engine. Last season, he appeared in 62 games, starting 55, and averaged 21.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists in 29.7 minutes per game. He shot an elite 60.0% from the field and contributed 1.0 steal and 0.5 blocks per contest. Despite his individual production, the Pelicans struggled to a 26-56 record and missed the playoffs. The team's new coaching staff, led by Mosley, is challenging Zion to expand his game with a more reliable perimeter shot to reduce the physical toll of constant paint attacks.
The immediate focus is on development and establishing a new culture under Mosley. Realistic expectations for the 2026-27 season center on evaluating the team's identity and seeing growth from young players like Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen. Playoff contention in a loaded Western Conference is seen as a longer-term goal. Williamson himself acknowledged he's not yet where he wants to be. "It’s not the way I would have wanted it to be, but that’s just part of this business," he said. "All you can do is just adjust with it and hope that things get better."
The preseason has offered mixed results, with a win over the Oklahoma City Thunder (116-110 on Oct. 6) and a loss to the Miami Heat (128-118 on Oct. 8) preceding the Dallas victory. The team's next test is a home preseason fixture against the Washington Wizards on October 16. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full schedule on our schedule page. For now, a healthy and motivated Zion Williamson provides the foundation for any potential progress in New Orleans.
