YouTube Gold: Zion Lights Up L.A. For 40

The Pels lost the play-in game, but Williamson was spectacular

After enduring a lot of criticism to start his NBA career, Zion Williamson really hit his stride this season and was back to the guy we saw at Duke: even at his massive size, he was everywhere, physically dominant but playing incredibly smart basketball.

The New Orleans Pelicans had to play the Los Angeles Lakers in a winner-take-all play-in game Tuesday night and while Williamson was spectacular with 40 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, two blocks and a steal, L.A. won, 110-106.

The highlights are amazing. Even a great defender like Anthony Davis can’t contain Williamson, who got to the basket at will, as he usually does. And he had a pair of blocks on LeBron James that, honestly, a few years ago would have been inconceivable. But Williamson is 23 and James is pushing 40. He’s playing very well for his age, but he’s still very old by NBA standards and his body isn’t what it used to be. We noticed it earlier this year when he couldn’t react defensively against Williamson.

And then there was this play. Remember the skinny kid from Syracuse - Marek Dolezaj - who drew a charge on Williamson?

It cost him.

Well, it happened here with James, who took a charge and also paid a price. It wasn’t as high a price, and give him credit, but if you stand between Williamson and the basket, it’s going to hurt.

Williamson was brilliant in this game but something happened near the end and Williamson left with an injury. It appeared to be mild - he was able to walk - but was clearly uncomfortable.

Still, Williamson answered a lot of questions this season and is one of the most compelling players on the planet. We can’t wait to see more.