The final three seasons of Zion Williamson’s contract with the New Orleans Pelicans are no longer guaranteed. Williamson missed more than 22 games last season, triggering a clause in his contract that changed his salary from guaranteed to non-guaranteed in 2025-26, 2026-27 and 2027-28.
In theory, the Pelicans could waive Williamson after the 24-25 season without any financial impact. Unless there are extreme circumstances, the chances of that happening are pretty low.
The deal also includes a way for Williamson to get his guaranteed money back if he plays enough games and passes certain weigh-in checkpoints.
Williamson signed a five-year, $197 million extension with the Pelicans in 2022.
The complex deal, which six league officials confirmed key details on condition of anonymity, included the unusual step the Pelicans took to directly tie guaranteed salary to games played. .
Under contract, Williamson’s combined weight and body fat percentage must be less than 295 pounds. His weight last season was listed at 285 pounds, which means his body fat should not exceed 10 percent.