Why the Kings won’t be the only team to struggle against Zion this season
Nov 21, 2023, 1:00 PM | Updated: Nov 22, 2023, 9:50 am
HOUSTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 10: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans controls the ball against the Houston Rockets during the second halfat Toyota Center on November 10, 2023 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
(Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Chris Biderman of the Sacramento Bee and Candlestick Chronicles Podcast joined Stiles & Watkins on Tuesday to talk about the Sacramento Kings and San Francisco 49ers.
In New Orleans covering the Kings and Pelicans series, Biderman said the team didn’t Zion Williamson “worth a lick.” But, he imagines with a day off between the two teams facing off against Wednesday, the Kings will come up with a new, varied gameplan for Williamson.
Speaking to coaches after the game, Biderman learned the Kings tried to attack the Pelicans with a zone defense. But that led to mismatches, including Kevin Huerter having to guard Zion Williamson at times.
“They’re going to try to up their physicality, maybe double-team him a little bit more, prevent him from just getting downhill and getting to the rim like he did,” Biderman said. “But the Kings aren’t the only team that Zion’s a tough matchup for. His physicality, his size, and his power is really difficult for them to handle… So I would imagine the Kings are going to have a much different approach when it comes to defending Zion, but they’re certainly not the only team that’s going to struggle defending him this year.”
Additional topics discussed include:
- The vibe in the Kings’ locker room after Monday’s loss
- Brock Purdy’s career passer-rating day against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- If there’s any concern about the 49ers secondary going up against the Seahawks receivers
- The health of Geno Smith and Kenneth Walker III heading into Thursday’s matchup with the 49ers
- Top dishes for a Thanksgiving meal
Click here to watch and listen to the full interview with Chris Biderman.
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