The New Orleans Pelicans have Zion Williamson under contract through the 2027-28 season, but rumors of a strained relationship between the star player and the team continue to swirl. The speculation intensified after the Pelicans suspended Williamson for showing up late to a team flight to Philadelphia.
On a recent episode of First Take, Stephen A. Smith fueled these rumors, claiming that Williamson doesn’t want to remain in New Orleans. According to Smith, the star forward has his sights set on joining a major market team, specifically naming Los Angeles and New York as potential destinations.
“Zion doesn’t want to be in New Orleans; he doesn’t want to be there. He wants to be in a major market like L.A., New York, or whatever because he wants the marketability,” Smith said.
Williamson’s interest in the New York Knicks is not a new revelation. Past reports have suggested that his decision to part ways with his previous agency was influenced by his long-standing desire to play for the Knicks.
Zion Williamson Names His Favorite Arenas
During a recent post-game press conference, Zion Williamson shared his thoughts on his favorite arenas to play in across the NBA. The New Orleans Pelicans star listed several iconic venues, including New York, Brooklyn, Boston, Chicago, and Atlanta, while sharing that his home arena in New Orleans remains his top pick.
“New York, Brooklyn is a low-key one I don’t think people appreciate enough, Boston, Chicago. I like Atlanta. There are a lot of dope arenas that all have their thing. New Orleans is clearly, by far, my favorite arena to play in,” Williamson said.
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Notably, Williamson’s mention of New York adds more fuel to the ongoing speculation about his interest in playing for the Knicks. While Williamson has not publicly stated a desire to leave New Orleans, his love for New York raises questions about whether there’s truth to the rumors.
