The whispers about Zion Williamson’s future have turned into full-volume conversations. The Pelicans have already moved on from veteran leaders like CJ McCollum and have started putting younger pieces around Zion. It feels like they’re testing how much they can build without relying entirely on him. And with his contract laced with weight clauses and game-play guarantees, you can almost see the front office preparing for either a redemption story or an exit plan.

Zion himself called it “very frustrating” back in March after another season cut short. Now, the Pelicans’ front office faces a brutal decision most saw coming. The 25-year-old forward, who was once expected to change the franchise’s fortunes overnight, is now a subject to audience’s backlash and doubt. His numbers on the court are still strong, but his time actually on the court keeps shrinking year after year. That simmering frustration boiled over online this week.

A popular fan account, QuestFor18, didn’t hold back! Responding to a Legion Hoops post about Zion’s summer look- “Zion needs to be traded so he can go on a mens health cover tour too. Bro not even trying to hide that belly anymore 😭”. The post referenced a recent photo showing Zion with his shirt unbuttoned.

It was definitely not good news for someone whose contract requires his weight and body fat to stay under a combined 295. For fans already concerned about his conditioning and the fact he’s played just 214 of a possible 492 games, the image was more fuel to the fire. With insiders calling him out with phrases like “last dance” in New Orleans, the suggestion to move him before his value drops is hitting harder than ever.

But while trade talk heats up, a totally different storyline popped up on the other side of the country. Fadeaway World reported that Jamal Crawford has already lined up big names for the 2026 edition of his Crawsover Pro-Am in Seattle, and two of the most surprising? Stephen Curry and Zion Williamson.

Crawford told the Seattle Times, “The Crawsover will be back… Next year I have it planned out… there’ll be a better plan going forward for sure.” The thought of Curry, even at 38, sharing the floor with Zion in a fun but competitive summer run has fans buzzing. Seeing the Warriors’ legendary shooter share the court with the Pelicans’ powerhouse would be a summer spectacle.

“Between Zion’s strength and Steph’s shooting, it’ll be must-watch TV,” Fadeaway World noted. While it’s just a Pro-Am, it fuels wild speculation about potential NBA pairings.

The Pelicans publicly stand by Zion. Exec Joe Dumars states “We are going to go forward with Zion. He is going to continue to be a focal point”. But the internet unfortunately, was not so kind towards Zion. Because the fans had some other plans in mind..

Fans sound off on Zion’s future

The reaction to QuestFor18’s tweet was instant and largely echoed the call for a trade. Many fans see no future with Zion in New Orleans, fearing his value will only decrease. “The Pelicans gotta trade Zion before he has no trade value,” one fan stressed. Adding bluntly, “Bc they not going nowhere with him on their roster.” This sense of urgency was widespread, with another simply stating, “The pelicans need to trade him asap.” The prevailing feeling is that the team is stuck and needs to act decisively.

Harsher critiques focused on Zion’s physique and perceived lack of commitment. Linking it directly to his trade value and the team’s struggles. “Bro needs to get the Luka treatment,” one comment suggested. Implying the Pelicans should trade him unceremoniously- “the Pelicans trade him away and call him a fatass on his way out”. Others questioned his dedication entirely, with one fan declaring, “Zion doesn’t take the NBA seriously. The Pelicans are cooked yet again this season.” The sentiment reflects deep frustration over his injury history.

Amidst the calls to trade him and the criticism, a darkly humorous take highlighted the financial bind Zion’s injuries have created. “Zion and his agent robbed tf out the Pelicans lmao,” one fan quipped. Adding pointedly, “he done playing ball!”. This captures the cynical view: that Zion secured a massive payday but hasn’t delivered the consistent, healthy superstar performance New Orleans desperately needs.

The laughter masks genuine concern about the team’s direction.