Zion Williamson’s stint in the NBA thus far has been a mixed bag, as his encounters with injuries have been frequent due to his size and weight. His 5-year, $197 million contract became unguaranteed after he missed more than 22 games in the 2023-24 season. However, there is still a clause in his deal that would allow him a guaranteed contract for the 2026-27 season.
After playing just one more game this season, Williamson will trigger a $16.8 million contract guarantee for the 2026-27 season, and the amount will keep getting higher as he plays more games with the team and meets the weight criteria. An NBA analyst shared on X:
“If Zion Williamson plays as he is expected to tonight (Friday), that will be his 41st game played this season. That will trigger a $16.8M contract guarantee for the 2026-27 season.
If Williamson meets various weight conditions, he can trigger an additional $8.4M in guarantees. From there, at 51 games played, guarantee grows to $25.3M.
Then, at 61 games played, guarantee grows to $33.7M Full guarantee of $42.2M would come by playing in 61 games and meeting various weight conditions, or on July 15.”
The North Carolina youngster, who was drafted the top overall in 2019, showed early promise and thus was given a max rookie extension by the Pelicans. However, lingering injuries have kept him out of the rotation for a major part.
Can the Pelicans’ bet on Zion Williamson work?
Zion Williamson was touted as a franchise piece by the team’s front office after he averaged a career-high 27 points and 7.2 rebounds in just his second season in the league. However, the numbers have only gone downhill after that season.
The Pelicans have a dismal 15-41 record this season, led by Trey Murphy and a rookie Derik Queen, who was drafted 13th overall in 2025. However, he has shown a rapid performance spurt and made an immediate impact on the team, leading the franchise in rebounds and assists.
The management is eyeing to build a young core with Zion Williamson at the center, and Derik Queen will be a great help to the big man. Time will only tell what happens to the young and explosive forward in the future.
READ MORE: Is the 2026 NBA Draft’s Top Pick Really Worth $100M? NBA Insider Reveals Stunning Projection
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