Longshot bets to make on Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans have had a controversial offseason that has revolved around Zion Williamson.

Some pundits would have you believe that the Pels were amongst the “biggest losers” of the offseason, while others like the younger, faster and more versatile team they’ve put around Zion Williamson.

I like that the Pelicans have zero bad contracts and feel like David Griffin did a good job to fix some of his mistakes and resist the temptation to overpay for Lonzo Ball.

But the sports books must not be too impressed, as they are giving the Pelicans and Zion Williamson some longshot odds for success this season.

If you are into gambling, and it is legal where you are, there are three bets that are worth talking a flyer on for a potential big payday.

New Orleans Pelicans: Zion Williamson’s odds of leading the league in scoring

The bet that I like the most is Zion Williamson to lead the league in scoring, which is currently getting +900 odds according to WynnBet.

Zion finished 8th last season at 27 points per game, five below scoring champion Stephen Curry.

This might seem like a lot to make up, especially for a guy who doesn’t shoot the 3-ball, but Zion Williamson has some ways to get there.

He should have a more dynamic, position-less team around him that can better take advantage of his skills and create more space.

And if Zion Williamson can just improve from the free-throw line he can pick up a couple of points per game that he was leaving on the table.

It’s a long shot for a reason, but at +900, it’s worth it, as Zion could make that leap.

New Orleans Pelicans: Zion Williamson’s MVP odds

I think it is very much a long shot that Zion Williamson even finishes in the top-3 in the MVP voting this season, as the Pels won’t likely have enough team success to warrant serious consideration.

But if the Pels can sneak into the playoffs and Zion Williamson is the one getting them there, then he will definitely get some votes.

He’s getting insane +4000 odds to win MVP, so even though it’s unlikely, it would be a nice pay off on even a small bet.

Can the New Orleans Pelicans make the playoffs?

If you think that Zion Williamson is going to win a scoring title, or even more unlikely the MVP, then it can only mean that the New Orleans Pelicans made the playoffs.

So if you are going to make either one of the other bets, you may as well pair it with the Pelicans’ making the playoffs, which is getting +160 from WynnBet.

These are all longshot bets for a reason, so bet with your head, not over it, but at those odds you could win some good coin.