New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson is facing criticism from fans regarding his fitness, and reports suggest that the team has been emphasizing the need for improvement in his diet and conditioning. According to Christian Clark of The Times-Picayune, the Pelicans have conveyed to Williamson that his health aspects require enhancement, but the veteran forward allegedly has not been receptive.
"The Pelicans 'have repeatedly stressed to Williamson that his diet and conditioning need to improve,' but the veteran forward 'doesn't listen,' according to Christian Clark of The Times-Picayune."
After the Pelicans' 133-89 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, where Williamson's performance drew scrutiny, concerns about his conditioning surfaced among fans. Finishing with 13 points, two rebounds, and three assists in nearly 26 minutes on the court, he faced comparisons to a highly effective 38-year-old LeBron James.
"Fans were quick to question his conditioning after he finished with just 13 points, two rebounds and three assists in nearly 26 minutes on the court and was heavily outplayed by a 38-year-old LeBron James."
This issue of conditioning has persisted since Williamson's rookie season, and despite acknowledging difficulties in maintaining a diet, there were indications of improvement over the summer. Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium reported that the Pelicans believed Williamson was "in really good shape" ahead of training camp.
"The Duke product admitted in July that it has been hard for him to diet, but it also appeared that he had made some good progress on his health over the summer."
However, recent comments by NBA legend Charles Barkley on NBA on TNT have reignited concerns about Williamson's fitness, with Barkley emphasizing the need for a mentor to assist him in getting in shape.
"He not in shape. He doesn't run. He plays the game strictly on talent. He's kinda like jogging on offense and defense," Barkley said.
