Stop Whining about Zion Williamson Getting Special Treatment

New Orleans Pelicans: Zion Williamson happens to be entertaining

The point of watching sports is to be entertained. It’s entertainment, same as your Netflix shows or an evening at the theater.

When choosing a format for a re-start, the NBA should consider what will be most entertaining for fans. We’ve all been sitting in our houses for the last months binge-watching old episodes of The Office, desperate for some live entertainment.

Count me as one of the fans that thinks including one of the most entertaining teams in the league is a good idea.

Strictly as a basketball fan, the World Cup Format proposed by The Ringer seems to be the most entertaining, and fair, as it gives each team at least eight games and a chance to win their way in. It would also give the Grizzlies a tiebreaker advantage, which is not small considering every team in the group could conceivably go 4-4.

Who doesn’t want to see their team play at least eight more times?

If I were a Memphis fan, I’d much rather see the Grizzlies play eight more games and have a realistic shot at the second round than to see them get swept by the Lakers just so I could say they were in the playoffs and the Pelicans weren’t.

I’m not suggesting it is all Memphis fans doing the complaining. There have been plenty of national stories written about how the league is underhanded in its attempt to get Zion a spot.

This isn’t all about the New Orleans Pelicans and Memphis Grizzlies. Wizards, Hornets and Bulls fans are asking, “What about us?” We’re a 10 seed just like the Pelicans, why aren’t we getting in?

Because your teams stink and no one wants to watch them, that’s why.

It’s about what’s entertaining, about pleasing the largest number of fans and about creating a format that is fun and draws attention.

Whether you think the NBA is sneakily trying to include its 19-year-old phenom or not, doesn’t the basketball fan in you want them to? I just don’t see the argument against watching Zion play more games.

The NBA will probably announce their decision some time in the next few weeks and I for one hope they rig this system to include Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans because I like basketball and I like being entertained.

Sue me.