Zion Williamson, often a highlight reel waiting to happen but just as often on the sidelines, has reportedly shed seven pounds and is in “impeccable condition” for the 2026-27 season. That’s the word from New Orleans Pelicans basketball operations chief Joe Dumars, who dropped the news Monday at the team’s media day. This guy has been listed at 277 pounds, making that a significant cut from last season’s weight.
Zion Finally “Gets It?” The Weight Is Off (Literally)
This isn’t just about a number on the scale, it’s about a mental shift, too. Dumars didn’t pull any punches, saying, “At some point, you just want the player to get it.” He went on to explain that when you have to call someone every morning to drag them to a workout, they just don’t get it yet. But when that player is “up and they’re doing it, and they’re the one leading it, then you start looking at that guy and you go, ‘Okay, he’s good.’” Dumars is pretty clear this is what he’s seen from Williamson this year. The message is loud and clear: you simply cannot play 82 games if you’re not in prime shape, and Williamson has apparently put in the work to hit that “impeccable condition.”
The Cost of Missed Games and Missed Opportunities
Look, the talent is undeniable, but the availability? That’s been the story. Williamson, who is 26, has missed a staggering 278 career games since being drafted in 2019. Last season was one of his best in terms of games played, hitting 62 appearances, which was his second-most in a single campaign. He put up solid numbers, averaging 21 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and a steal per game, all while shooting an impressive 60 percent from the field. Yet, even with those stats, the Pelicans limped to a 26-56 record and missed the playoffs for the third time in four years. It’s been a tough stretch for New Orleans, who haven’t won a postseason series since the 2017-18 season.
The Pelicans have an interesting core with Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Dejounte Murray, Herbert Jones, Derik Queen, and Jeremiah Fears. But let’s be real, breaking into the playoffs in the stacked Western Conference is no joke. Everyone knows the team’s upside, their absolute ceiling, “begins and ends with Williamson.” If this renewed focus on fitness, this “impeccable condition,” translates to him actually being on the court consistently, then this new season could finally be the one. The question remains: can he lead them out of the basement and into contention? We’re all waiting to see if this is finally the turning point.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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