Pelicans forward Zion Williamson scores 22 in season-opening loss to Pacers
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The gist
Pelicans forward Zion Williamson scored 22 points, including two three-pointers, in a 123-120 loss to the Pacers.
His expanded three-point shooting and health are the storylines to watch this season.
Background
Zion Williamson is a 26-year-old star forward for the New Orleans Pelicans and wears No. 1. Staying healthy has long been the central question around him, and he made just 1-of-4 three-pointers across 62 games last season, so his two makes from deep in the opener stood out. He has two years left on his deal with no real extension talks in the works, per Last Word on Sports.
How it unfolded
- Oct 16, 2026Williamson posted 11 points, five rebounds and one assist over 22 minutes in a 107-106 preseason win over the Wizards.
- Oct 20, 2026Williamson spoke with the media after practice at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center ahead of the season opener.
- Oct 21, 2026Williamson had 22 points (7-16 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 6-6 FT), three rebounds, three assists and three steals in 32 minutes in a 123-120 loss to the Pacers; NBC Sports lists four rebounds.
- Oct 21, 2026With the Pelicans trailing by three and the shot clock off, Williamson rebounded and attempted a tying three-pointer but shot an air ball after a pump fake.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- RotoWire and NBC Sports note Williamson hit more three-pointers in the opener than all of last season, which could boost his fantasy value.
- Caution
- CBS Sports says staying healthy has always been the question, making his clean preseason bill of health the biggest takeaway.
- Expert
- Last Word on Sports says Williamson is a top-15 offensive talent if he stays healthy and improves defensively, but currently has little trade value as general managers doubt his durability.
Still unverified
Various general managers doubt Williamson's durability, according to Last Word on Sports; RotoWire says he could be preparing to add another dimension to his arsenal.