Zion Williamson Embraces Sixth-Man Role as Pelicans Extend Win Streak
Zion Williamson has never been one to shy away from the spotlight. But since returning from a groin injury, the New Orleans Pelicans’ star forward has taken a different route-coming off the bench.
And it’s working. In fact, it might be one of the smartest adjustments the Pelicans have made all season.
Monday night’s 119-113 win over the Dallas Mavericks marked the fourth straight game Williamson has played in a reserve role, and once again, he delivered. He dropped 24 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and dished out three assists-numbers that speak for themselves. But it was his 10-point scoring burst in the fourth quarter that truly shifted the momentum and helped seal the Pelicans’ fifth consecutive win, their longest streak of the season.
A Strategic Shift-and a Selfless One
Interim head coach James Borrego acknowledged the tactical nature of the move but also gave credit where it was due: to Zion himself.
“The goal was to maximize his minutes. It’s a math game,” Borrego said postgame. “I knew he was gonna respond well, but for him to approach it this way-with a mature, team-first mentality-he deserves credit for that.”
That kind of mindset from a franchise cornerstone isn’t just commendable-it’s contagious. And it’s part of why New Orleans is starting to look like a team that’s figuring things out at the right time.
Zion’s Efficiency Remains Elite
Even in a slightly reduced role, Williamson continues to produce at a high level. He’s averaging 21.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting an efficient 52.6% from the field and 74.8% from the free-throw line. That level of production, paired with more controlled minutes, could be the key to keeping him healthy and effective deep into the season.
And make no mistake-he’s still the engine when it matters most. His ability to take over in crunch time, like he did against Dallas, is a reminder of why he remains the centerpiece of this roster, regardless of when he checks into the game.
Rookie Rising: Derik Queen Making His Presence Felt
While Zion led the charge late, he wasn’t alone. Rookie big man Derik Queen continues to impress, putting up 19 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists in a performance that showcased his growing confidence and versatility.
“He gets better every game,” Williamson said of Queen. “He’s a special talent, and I’m glad he’s with us.”
That’s high praise from the face of the franchise-and it’s well-earned. Queen’s recent stretch has been eye-opening: over his last three games, he’s averaging 17.3 points, 11.0 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game, while shooting a scorching 61.1% from the floor. For a rookie, that’s elite two-way production.
Supporting Cast Stepping Up
It wasn’t just Zion and Queen doing the heavy lifting. Saddiq Bey added 19 points and seven assists, giving the Pelicans another reliable scoring option on the wing. The ball movement, spacing, and shot selection have all improved during this win streak, and it’s clear the team is benefiting from more balanced contributions.
On the other side, Dallas got a monster night from Anthony Davis, who poured in a season-high 35 points with 17 rebounds and two assists. Klay Thompson chipped in 20 points and five boards, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Pelicans’ late-game execution.
Looking Ahead: A Crucial Stretch Coming
The Pelicans are heating up at just the right time, but the schedule isn’t easing up. They’ll hit the road to face the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday before returning home for back-to-back games against the Phoenix Suns on Friday and Saturday. That three-game stretch will test both their depth and their defensive discipline.
But if the current formula holds-Zion thriving in a more controlled role, Queen continuing to ascend, and the supporting cast staying sharp-New Orleans could be on the verge of something bigger than just a midseason win streak.
For now, the Pelicans have found a rhythm, and Zion Williamson is showing that sometimes, the biggest stars shine brightest when they put the team first.