Zion Williamson’s comments hint at bigger problems he and Pelicans must solve

Whenever Zion Williamson speaks, the entire New Orleans Pelicans organization listens. But the phrase that grabbed some national attention was one many thought they’d never hear from Williamson: “I’m taking a little bit of a back seat right now.” When asked if it’s been tough for him to accept a different role this season, Williamson responded, “I’m just trying to be a team player and buy into it. It’s tough right now, but I think we’re going to figure it out.” GO DEEPER Lack of cohesion between Pelicans' stars exposed in late collapse against Rockets It’s tough to pinpoint what was more revealing about Williamson’s comments: The exasperation in his voice when he delivered them, or the fact that … he hasn’t taken a back seat in the offense this season. “We’ve got to get some easy baskets, especially with guys being out.” In the first three seasons of Williamson’s career, he shot an absurd 60.5 percent from the field. “We’ve got to play with more of a sense of urgency.” GO DEEPER Zion Williamson, Pelicans know talk is cheap and actions matter: 'We just have to show y'all' In light of those issues, Williamson’s comments after Sunday’s loss show there is more to this situation than just a couple of star players in an early-season slump.