EVP Dumars: Pelicans have 'no intentions' of trading Zion

The New Orleans Pelicans aren't planning to part ways with Zion Williamson despite missing the playoffs for a second consecutive year.

"Listen, we have no intentions of doing that," executive of basketball operations Joe Dumars said Tuesday, according to CBS Sports' James Herbert. "We're going into the offseason looking forward to Zion coming back next year and playing great again next year."

Williamson had one of his best seasons after back and hamstring injuries limited him to 30 games during the 2024-25 campaign. He played in 62 contests this season, his second most since being drafted in 2019. The two-time All-Star averaged 21 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists.

Dumars also brushed off the perception that Williamson's presence makes for an awkward fit alongside Derik Queen, who moved to a reserve role in late February.

Williamson himself has been equally adamant that he doesn't want to play anywhere else.

"New Orleans is home for me," Williamson told reporters Monday. "I don't say that because I'm sitting in front of these cameras or talking to y'all. When the offseason hits, a lot of guys leave the city. I live here. I stay here in the city. I go out. I do different things to try to get to know the city more. This is home for me. I've been here since I was 19 years old. I do want to be here long term."

Williamson, 25, has two years remaining on five-year, $197-million deal signed in July 2022, per Spotrac. The Duke product is eligible to sign a three-year extension worth up to $177 million this offseason, Herbert reports.

Dumars also said that while the Pelicans haven't finalized a list of candidates for their vacant head coaching position, interim coach James Borrego will be considered for the full-time role. Borrego took over in November after the team parted ways with Willie Green following a 2-10 start.