Should we take Zion Williamson’s extension comments at face value?

PHOENIX, ARIZONA – APRIL 17: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans talks with crew personale on the bench throughout the second half of Sport One of many Western Convention First Spherical NBA Playoffs towards the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Middle on April 17, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Suns defeated the Pelicans 110-109. NOTE TO USER: Person expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or utilizing this {photograph}, Person is consenting to the phrases and situations of the Getty Photographs License Settlement. (Photograph by Christian Petersen/Getty Photographs)

The New Orleans Pelicans put up a valiant effort towards the Phoenix Suns within the first spherical of the NBA Playoffs however in the end fell in six video games. Nevertheless, the efficiency felt all of the extra spectacular contemplating they had been with out Zion Williamson for the whole season.

After a tumultuous season of reporting, Williamson appeared to finish the yr on good phrases with the Pelicans. When requested a couple of potential extension throughout his exit interview, Williamson said he “couldn’t signal it quick sufficient.”

This was sufficient to calm everybody’s nerves a couple of potential blockbuster commerce this summer season. However do Williamson’s phrases actually imply as a lot as everybody thinks they do?

Ought to we take Zion Williamson’s extension feedback at face worth?

Now, this isn’t a knock on Williamson. Outdoors of his midseason hiccup with CJ McCollum, he looks as if a pleasant man. He might be seen absolutely engaged on the sidelines all all through the playoffs.

Nevertheless, after the season all of us simply witnessed, how can a number of easy phrases be sufficient to quell the fears that the majority had been experiencing all yr lengthy? In all honesty, they’ll’t.

Phrases don’t imply a lot within the NBA anymore. Simply have a look at Kyrie Irving because the prime instance. He stated he would re-sign with the Boston Celtics and only a few months later was colluding with Kevin Durant at All-Star Weekend.

And this isn’t a shot at Irving. Gamers are allowed to do no matter they need. They don’t must be loyal to any crew they don’t need to be loyal to (as a lot as these followers will hate them for it).

You may have your personal opinion on gamers requesting to be traded, however no matter that opinion, that’s the best way the NBA is these days. Gamers management their very own future more often than not.

So, whereas Williamson might state that he desires to re-sign, that doesn’t imply a lot. In a number of months, he may need out and all he must do is say the phrase.

Plus, what was he speculated to say? “No, I don’t need to be right here?” That may have been a sure-fire approach to trigger a riot amongst NBA followers in all places.

The purpose is, Williamson gave the proper, media-friendly response to a query he was requested. And whilst you can select to take his phrase for it, based mostly on the NBA’s monitor document, that might not be one of the best concept.