Two-time NBA All-Star Zion Williamson has dominated when on the court this season, but the New Orleans Pelicans star forward has struggled to stay healthy. Williamson has already missed 36 games this season, leading to a disastrous 12-42 start for the Pelicans.

The New Orleans Pelicans are doubling down on injury-plagued, sixth-year pro Zion Williamson, hoping he can be a more reliable and productive centerpiece in the years to come. Pelicans basketball operations chief David Griffin says Williamson is a better basketball player now than he's ever been and has begun to take more of a leadership role.

Executive VP of basketball operations David Griffin said during a lengthy press conference that he’ll continue to build his team around the high-scoring big man.