While Williamson has shown flashes of the talent many expected him to be when selected first overall in the 2019 draft, there have been availability concerns. He’s surpassed 60 games twice in six seasons in New Orleans, most recently making 30 appearances in 2024-25. Add in the off-court concerns, including Williamson being named in a recent lawsuit , and it’s fair to question his place within the Pelicans’ hierarchy. Based on his recent comments, Dumars does not appear to share those concerns. “I’ve had really good conversations with Zion,” Dumars said. “We’ve had lunch. Dinner. Watched playoff games together. We’ve done it all. I’ve had some real honest conversations with him. Some real direct and honest conversations. We’re going to go forward with Zion. He’s going to continue to be a focal point here as we go forward.”

Williamson’s attorneys released a statement calling the charges against him categorically false. While this case plays out in the legal system, the NBA may also choose to open its own investigation. Williamson’s future with New Orleans was a topic of discussion heading into the offseason, and it’s yet unknown how much this lawsuit may impact the front office’s decision to keep him on the roster or move him and take the franchise in a different direction.

With the Pelicans relieving lead executive David Griffin of his duties and hiring Joe Dumars as his replacement, there was a fresh set of trade rumors regarding Williamson. With the final three seasons of his current contract not guaranteed, it may be easier for New Orleans to move Zion and hit the “reset” button. However, according to Guillory, that’s unlikely to happen this summer. “There’s already been communication between Williamson, his camp and Dumars on several occasions,” Guillory wrote. “All parties feel pretty good about where things stand with the Pelicans-Williamson marriage heading into next season.” When on the court, Williamson can be a highly impactful player in fantasy leagues, especially for managers not needing three-point production. However, availability has been an issue for most of his career, which negatively impacts his ADP.

Williamson has already missed the Pelicans’ last five games, and he will remain sidelined for the final two weeks of the regular season. He suffered a low back bone contusion on March 19, and with New Orleans looking to improve their lottery odds, there is no reason for Williamson to play through any injury. Bruce Brown should continue to start for the rest of the season when available.