After a nine-month stay in Durham, Zion Williamson has moved one step closer to finding out where his new home in the NBA might be.
The New Orleans Pelicans won the NBA Draft Lottery Tuesday night, overcoming just a six percent chance to do so—tied for the sixth-best odds. New Orleans' 2018-19 campaign was highlighted by the trade request of star forward Anthony Davis, who expressed his desire for a deal before the February deadline. A trade partner was unable to be found, however, and Davis awkwardly remained a Pelican for the rest of the season.
It has long been seen as a possibility that this year's No. 1 pick could be included in a potential trade for Davis, with Williamson proving to be one of the best draft prospects in recent memory. Instead, in a surprising turn of events, New Orleans is now home to both their superstar and that selection.
The Los Angeles Lakers jumped seven spots to pick No. 4, while the Memphis Grizzlies and New York Knicks got second and third selections, though none of them will be going home with the night's biggest prize.
Nevertheless, this does not guarantee Williamson dons the Pelicans' colors next season. Despite the surprising outcome, a trade involving the pick is still not out of the question prior to the NBA Draft on June 21.
But no matter what transpires between now and the time the former Duke standout suits up for his first pro contest, tonight may mark a turning point in the power structure of the NBA for years to come.
Complete draft order:
- New Orleans Pelicans
- Memphis Grizzlies
- New York Knicks
- Los Angeles Lakers
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Phoenix Suns
- Chicago Bulls
- Atlanta Hawks
- Washington Wizards
- Atlanta Hawks
- Minnesota Timberwolves
- Charlotte Hornets
- Miami Heat
- Boston Celtics
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.