New Orleans forward Zion Williamson said Monday he intends to remain with the franchise that drafted him first overall in 2019, despite his name circulating in trade rumors before February’s deadline. “New Orleans is home for me,” the 25-year-old told reporters, noting he has lived in the city since he was 19.
Williamson, who has two seasons left on his maximum-salary contract, appeared in 62 games in 2025/26. The Pelicans went 22-40 with him in the lineup and 26-56 overall. Calling his own play “just OK,” he said he hopes to log at least 75 games next year and push the club back into the postseason. Williamson added that he “100%” trusts head of basketball operations Joe Dumars and plans to consult Dumars, Hall of Famers and former champions for guidance this summer.
Roster voices favor staying put
Saddiq Bey, who will earn $6.44 million in 2026/27, enters the final season of his deal eligible for an extension. Asked about his future, the forward replied, “I want to be here … as long as possible,” according to The Athletic’s Will Guillory.
Guard Dejounte Murray, back on the court February 24 after tearing his Achilles on January 31, 2025, dismissed speculation that he returned only to improve his trade value. Guillory quoted Murray saying he remains committed to New Orleans and hopes to continue with the team.
Coaching search and front-office outlook
Interim coach James Borrego said he has not discussed the permanent job with Dumars. “We’ve just been focusing on the season,” Borrego told NOLA.com. Preliminary conversations have centered on evaluating the year rather than future plans. Dumars is scheduled to meet the media Tuesday.
In an ESPN video breakdown, front-office insider Bobby Marks noted the Pelicans lack a 2026 first-round pick after last year’s trade-up for Derik Queen. Marks recommended pursuing an extension with Bey but below the projected four-year, $93 million maximum, and predicted the club will decline its $8 million team option on Kevon Looney. Marks added he would be surprised if the current roster returns intact for 2026/27.
Source: Hoops Rumors
