The New Orleans Pelicans are rolling at the moment, winning four games in a row after losing their first four. The impressive play of Zion Williamson has been key to the Pelicans' recent success.
Williamson is usually on the business end of highlight reel slam dunks. But against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Zion turned provider for Trey Murphy III as the two combined on an impressive halfcourt alley-oop.
While bringing the ball up the court, Zion spotted an open Murphy heading toward the rim. He then produced a perfect pass to his Pelicans teammate, who skied up and unleashed a fierce throwdown that Zion would be proud of.
Williamson came into the game averaging a team-leading 21.5 points and 5.1 rebounds per game while shooting 61% from the field. However, he's averaging just 2.6 assists per game, his lowest total since his rookie year. But he already surpassed his average against the Wolves with three assists by halftime.
Murphy, on the other hand, has gotten off to a somewhat disappointing start. After back-to-back seasons averaging over 21 points per game, he is scoring only 15 points per game over his first seven appearances this season. Granted, he has been listed on the team's injury report in recent games, including for this game against Minnesota. Moreover, the return of Dejounte Murray after missing most of last season has taken up some of those shot attempts.
With the Pelicans finally at full strength, this is their chance to show what they can really do. Williamson will be crucial in leading the charge, and so far at least, he is rising up to the occasion.