Going back to the 2019 NBA draft, when the New Orleans Pelicans called Zion Williamson's name with the first overall pick, the hype was unreal for the Duke standout. He was widely regarded as the most hyped prospect since LeBron James, and many thought he had the potential to become the face of the league. Zion had the charisma, the smile, the personality, the athleticism, and most definitely the skill. However, to this point in time, injuries and off-court issues have halted that agenda.
Heading into this upcoming season, I really think that Williamson could finally fulfill his destiny of being like LeBron, but not necessarily for the reason one may think.
Throughout this entire offseason period, when Williamson's name is brought up, it's been attached to Pelicans President Joe Dumars. That might not mean much to most, as front office leaders typically have close relationships with their stars. That being said, I think it's a sign that soon enough Williamson will have a say in the decisions that the front office is making.
There has been a consistent theme coming from Pelicans executives and members of the media saying that Joe Dumars has expressed a strong desire for Williamson to take on a role as a leader. Leadership may be one of LeBron's most valuable traits, and now it's something Williamson will be looking to add.
Although Zion may never be the face of the league, he is following in LeBron's footsteps with his connectivity to the front office and goal to become a leader.
Could Zion become ZI-GM?
If you're in the NBA world, you've heard the nickname LE-GM. This nickname was given to LeBron for being so connected to the front office and being a decision maker when it came to hiring, firing, signing, and trading people. So could Zion become ZI-GM?
I honestly don't see why not. In just over 3 months, the bond between Williamson and Dumars has grown as both men appear to be extremely close. Dumars even mentioned in an interview that they talk almost every day and that they are extremely close. Having a relationship like that is only going to lead to Zion getting involved in front-office decisions.
Obviously, Dumars still needs to have control and needs to be the one with the final say on front office dealings, but getting Williamson's opinion on things wouldn't hurt anybody. He's the one on the court every night playing and seeing things that someone watching from a press box or the sidelines may not pick up on. Having his voices would be one more weapon for Dumars.