Zion Williamson is flawed. Eight games into his rookie campaign, he’s plagued by a loose handle, inconsistent jump shot and an oft-idling defensive motor. Yet, Williamson has already proved himself a dominant force and one of the Pelicans’ best players.
He’s posting 34.1 points and 12.9 rebounds per 100 possessions on a 60.6% true shooting, about four points above the league average. Zion’s sample size is currently small, but only six other players have matched or equaled Zion’s scoring volume and efficiency this season per 100. Four are All-Stars — Giannis Antetokounmpo, James Harden, Damian Lillard and Anthony Davis — and Devin Booker and Karl Anthony-Towns are the other two, both deserving of accolade for strong offensive seasons.