The Pelicans should trade Zion Williamson despite recent hot streak

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson has been playing excellent basketball as of late. 

The 2019 No.1 pick is fresh off another solid performance in a loss against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday night. Williamson had 37 points, four rebounds and six assists on 17-of-23 from the field in only 26 minutes.

Moreover, Williamson has averaged 27.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 5.5 assists over the last 10 games. The Pelicans forward has also gotten into better physical shape as of late. According to ESPN's Michael Wright , Zion Williamson is listed at 264 pounds, which is the lightest he's been since 2019. 

However, the Pelicans should still consider moving on from Williamson despite his recent hot streak. 

Since being drafted in 2019, Williamson has played in only 208 games and missed the 2021-22 season entirely. Injuries and conditioning issues have hindered the two-time All-Star from reaching his full potential. 

The Pelicans have surrounded Williamson with a solid supporting cast throughout his tenure, but the constant setbacks halted any hope for the team to potentially contend in the Western Conference. 

Williamson's trade value is trending upwards and New Orleans should take advantage and receive valuable assets in return. 

Yes, Williamson is playing arguably the best basketball of his career, but availability and durability has to matter. When the 6'6", 264 Ib forward is healthy, he can be one of the league's best players. However, Williamson's availability is too inconsistent for the Pelicans to continue to anticipate him staying healthy throughout another season heading into year seven. 

As Williamson turns 25 years old this summer, the Pelicans should find a suitable trade partner and officially begin a rebuild.