Coming into the League, the basketball world had envisioned New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson as a prospect capable of shattering records and turning the franchise into premier contenders for seasons to come.
However, numerous injuries have kept Williamson sideline during pivotal periods, and some, like his foot injury in 2021, kept him away from the court for an entire season. The excitement the Duke product once had from his fans turned into a wave of negativity around his production towards his physical health.
In year four, the former first-overall pick has proven he’s lived up to his draft value by making history in his 100th career game. Williamson has scored 2,524 points through the first 100 games of his career, the most scored by any player since Michael Jordan (2,721) did it, according to ESPN Stats & Info.
Yea, he did a lil bit of everything 😏#Pelicans | @Gatorade pic.twitter.com/yFy8cNupdM
— New Orleans Pelicans (@PelicansNBA) November 29, 2022
The NBA has seen some generational talent, but only a select few come close to the level of production Jordan once did with the Chicago Bulls. With Williamson’s total points being second to the iconic figure, there’s no doubt the Pels fanbase has regained faith in No. 1.
Zion spins and sinks the and-1 in the clutch!
— NBA (@NBA) November 29, 2022
The @PelicansNBA lead by 2 on NBA League Pass with 43.1 remaining. Use code NBA50 at checkout for 50% off ➡ https://t.co/kv8oudlxUm pic.twitter.com/LV2i3Y5Pp1
That’s one record down and several more to go for Williamson to put under his belt. The human highlight reel may be next to a name like Jordan for his 100th career game, but that doesn’t mean he’ll earn the same level of respect as one of the all-time best. A healthy Williamson has shown his capabilities, and it’s just a matter of remaining consistent with them.
