The energy around the New Orleans Pelicans heading into the 2025-26 NBA season feels… different.
Not chaotic. Not uncertain. But focused.
Sources close to the franchise tell ScoopB.com that the Pelicans are fully committed to Zion Williamson as the face of their franchise, and more importantly, Zion is committed right back. There’s a sense of alignment between player and front office that hasn’t always existed during his five years in the league.
A large part of that shift stems from the presence of new President of Basketball Operations, Joe Dumars.
Dumars, a Hall of Famer known for his championship pedigree as both a player and executive, has been in consistent dialogue with Williamson since taking over. Those conversations, described by sources as “direct, respectful and high standard,” have helped establish a new tone in New Orleans.
“Joe is holding Zion accountable, but in a way that empowers him,” a source familiar with the relationship tells ScoopB.com. “Zion’s responding well. This is the best he’s been mentally his entire career.”
That’s significant.
Zion’s talent has never been the question. When healthy, he’s a dominant force who can shift games with a mix of power, finesse, and jaw-dropping athleticism. But injuries, conditioning questions, and off-court distractions have marred stretches of his young career.
Now? Zion appears locked in, both physically and emotionally.
“He understands what’s expected,” the source continued. “And with Dumars there, the message is clear: the franchise is building around you, but you have to meet the moment.”
Roster Flexibility the Play
As training camp approaches, the Pelicans still have one open roster spot. But don’t expect them to rush into a signing just for the sake of completing the lineup.
According to league sources, the Pelicans are staying flexible with that final slot. While they’ve explored options, the sense is that they’re content with their core and want to see how things shape up in camp before committing to another player.
“They like this group,” a league insider tells ScoopB.com. “There’s a belief that continuity matters, and a focus right now on internal development and chemistry.”
New Orleans returns a strong nucleus all expected to play key roles alongside Zion. The continued growth of young players like Jordan Hawkins also looms large, especially under the structure Dumars and head coach Willie Green are reinforcing.
A New Chapter in the Bayou
It’s early. And the Western Conference remains as unforgiving as ever. But the vibes in New Orleans suggest a quiet confidence.
Zion is healthy, mentally present, and bought in. Joe Dumars is setting a tone. The roster is deep. The front office is methodical. And for the first time in a long time, there’s true synergy at all levels of the franchise.
The Pelicans believe their time is coming. And they believe Zion will be the one to lead them there.
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