Zion Williamson, Pelicans know talk is cheap and actions matter: ‘We just have to show y’all’

NEW ORLEANS – Zion Williamson didn’t appear to be in much of a talking mood at Monday’s media day in New Orleans. We want to be a playoff team.” GO DEEPER Zion Williamson and the Pelicans begin their most important season yet That may be part of the motivation behind Williamson’s change in demeanor. On Monday, Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin said he was thrilled with the effort Williamson put in to make sure he’s in the best position to succeed. “This was the first summer where we’ve seen Zion really take his profession seriously like that and invest it off the court on his own in a way that I think is meaningful,” Griffin said. “I think he’s going to be a huge component to elevate our program, especially on the offensive end.” New Orleans also made some critical changes to its much-maligned sports and performance staff, with former head trainer Aaron Nelson moving into an advisory role and hiring Amy Atmore to become director of rehabilitation.