The New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williams performs at his best when he is fit. However, the player’s fitness has been a lingering issue lately, something that has drawn wide controversy in the past.
During the Pelicans’ recent match against the Sacramento Kings, despite the team securing a 127-117 victory, NBA legend Charles Barkley was quick to point out Williamson’s on-court performance and his lack of physical fitness.
Williamson faces criticism from Barkley
Known for his direct and candid commentary, Charles Barkley didn’t hold back in discussing Williamson’s present condition. This frank evaluation raised concerns about Williamson’s physical fitness and its potential impact on his performance.
“He’s not in shape,” Barkley stated. “He doesn’t run. He plays the game strictly on talent. He never runs on the fast break. He’s jogging on offense and defense.”
However, Barkley’s assessment came with a sense of empathy and understanding. Drawing from his own experiences, he acknowledged Williamson’s unique talent, suggesting that the young player has the potential to be “special.”
Reflecting on his mentor Moses Malone’s impactful intervention in his career, where he was bluntly labeled “fat and lazy,” Barkley sees this as a form of tough love that could propel Williamson to new heights.
Barkley, who faced similar challenges with his weight during his career, recalled a weight clause in his contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. He hinted that for Williamson, the solution might be as straightforward yet demanding as “running harder.” This perspective was quantified through the “sprint count” tracked by TNT’s “Inside the NBA” team, revealing a noticeable lack of sprints by Williamson in the first half of the Kings game.
Zion Williamson fuels Bulls speculation with playful chat
Amidst concerns about the team’s inconsistencies and reported negative atmosphere, suggestions for a complete rebuild have surfaced among fans due to the Chicago Bulls’ main core struggles this season.
However, recent attention has shifted with a viral video featuring rising star Zion Williamson, sparking curiosity among Bulls enthusiasts about a potential trade move.
The footage, circulating the NBA internet, captured Williamson briefly discussing the idea of joining the Bulls. During a chance encounter with what appears to be a Bulls staffer in the United Center hallway, playful banter ensued about the possibility.
“Heard you want to come play for us [in the Bulls],” the staff asked and Williamson responded, “Woah, don’t say it out loud.”
While the video creates speculation, it’s essential to recognize it as a mere fantasy, potentially fueled by misinformation. Originally posted in February 2022, during the season when Williamson was sidelined due to a foot injury, the clip resurfaced on TikTok after the recent Pelicans-Bulls game, leading Chicago fans to imagine a potential move.
The reality, however, remains a distant dream, as the Bulls will surely face challenges in acquiring Williamson through a trade. Locked into a max contract until 2027-28 and actively contributing to the current season with the Pelicans, Williamson’s move to Chicago appears unlikely. Despite the enticing fantasy, the Bulls maintain their commitment to current efforts, staying focused on turning their season around.
