“Ozempic is out there” - Zion Williamson gets harsh opinion from Michelle Beadle
New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson has struggled to maintain a manageable weight that could help him in his career. On Wednesday's episode of "Run It Back," the weight of Williamson was discussed, and Michelle Beadle, one of the hosts, made an interesting suggestion.
The weight concern regarding the Pelicans forward has been evident since his rookie season. This fluctuation has also impacted his body's response. His inconsistent weight has led to injuries, raising worries among the organization, coaches and the media.
During the broadcast, DeMarcus Cousins, a former Pelicans center, expressed his opinion that bringing Williamson to New Orleans was a poor choice.
“All we’re asking you to do is get in shape and stay in shape,” Cousins said. “That’s it.
“I spoke on this before, drafting this kid knowing there’s a weight concern, you don’t send him to a city like New Orleans. I’m from Mobile, Alabama and New Orleans is like second home. We got to New Orleans when we wanna eat good.”
Beadle, then, suggested the 6-foot-6 big man should use a prescription injection to treat type 2 diabetes.
“It’s a lot. I mean, Ozempic is out there,” Beadle chimed in.
Williamson has suffered another injury with the Pelicans early in the 2024-25 NBA season. Due to a hamstring injury, the two-time All-Star has only played in six games this season. While he was healthy, the former Duke star averaged 22.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and 5.3 assists.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Pelicans clarify position on Zion Williamson & $36 million forward ahead of trade deadline
Pelicans are ready to move on from Zion Williamson
The Pelicans have decided to move on from the undersized big man, Zion Williamson. According to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer on Monday, New Orleans looks to prepare itself in trading away its franchise star. However, Williamson isn't the only player on the trading block, as All-Star forward Brandon Ingram is also on the list of players they are willing to part ways with.
Stein and Fischer reported that the Pelicans are ready to shift their focus. They named three players New Orleans is willing to keep and start a new franchise with.
Per NBA Insiders, the Pelicans plan to retain Herb Jones, rookie Yves Missi and Trey Murphy III. This indicates that other players, including veterans like CJ McCollum, Dejounte Murray, Jose Alvarado and Daniel Theis may soon be traded.
New Orleans is at the bottom of the Western Conference with a 5-22 record. In addition to Williamson's absence, the Pelicans have dealt with injuries to other players on the roster.
Also read: "Fat kid becomes fat adult" - Shannon Sharpe berates Zion Williamson's conditioning amid another injury-troubled season