Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans is drawing a lot of flak lately for his subpar performance this 2023-24 NBA season. In the eyes of Shaquille O'Neal, the former top pick is not playing hard enough after observing his efforts against the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Pelicans were routed by the Lakers, 133-89, on Thursday, December 7, in the NBA In-Season semifinal matchup. Williamson accounted for only 13 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists in 26 minutes of play, ESPN reported.
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"It's not a diss. It's going to be a lesson from one great big man to another guy that can be a great big. Does not run hard. I had the same problem. I thought I was running hard," O'Neal said in the post-game show.
Williamson acknowledged his poor performance and took responsibility for it.
"I got to be more aggressive, finding my shot. I got to do more things to get my team going. I think I was too laid-back tonight, and I just can't do that. And defensively I got to be better," the 6-foot-6 forward said.
Is it time to move on from Williamson?
Williamson has not played an entire season and has been notorious for struggling to stay healthy. This is well-documented, most of it because of his weight and fitness problems.
The Pelicans have called Williamson's attention to his problem. And it appears that even with calls to improve, the former Duke Blue Devil is not listening, according to Christian Clark of Nola.com.
The Pelicans repeatedly stressed to Williamson that his diet and conditioning must improve. Multiple team sources have told The Times-Picayune that Williamson "doesn't listen."
Williamson has a weight clause in his current contract with the Pelicans. That includes going through periodic weigh-ins throughout the deal. If his weight plus body fat percentage goes above 295, he will lose money, per Clark via CBS Sports.
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