I Watched Zion Williamson Live & Saw A Different Side of Things

[@BrianSuttererMD]

Do you agree that Zion has looked disinterested and low energy at times lately? Or am I way off base here and being too critical?

[@reggiebone]

you on point I agree

[@tygur23]

He missed half of the season so his cardio is way off and also he has played more games than what he played in college also he is a baby with bad habits u should probably focused more of your expertise with how when he jumps for layups or dunks he mostly lands with his feet far from being under his center of gravity causing undo pressure being exerted on his knees and ankles adversely if you watch lebron he is very aware of protecting himself when he jumps and lands with his feet lined with his hips and shoulders keeping center of gravity in a line this is something that robbed Derrick Rose of his elite athleticism

[@kavinmaharaj9070]

Seems like similar to Anthony Davis he doesn't want to be with NOP. On the other hands, highlights with Zo it looks really good. I'm really worried about him physically rather than mentally. I understand he's got trainers and physicians to help him emotionally/mentally. These vids make me realise how much the media is able to create a narrative of this superhuman Zion. Hopefully this isn't a case like Derrick Rose physically. Great vid btw!

[@entrepreneurialhacks1255]

Yeah he looks like a Hassan Whiteside. When he was in Miami in Portland he's doing fantastic

[@TheMastaSelecta]

I agree. You got some good disinterested footage.

[@mjnajr]

I think he is sad that he is not where he wants to be physically. I used to feel like that after I got hurt. I couldn't do what I used to or wanted to until I was 100%

[@gseric4721]

I was about to comment the same thing until I saw this. Looks like the shoulder slouching is coming from his envisioning ahead of time what kind of play he's going to make, but then his body isn't doing what his mind is telling it to do. I've been there too, but it's got to be a completely different level when you're getting paid to play.

[@abuhrman989]

I was thinking the same thing. Ik I have a shoulder strain and when I cant throw a ball or play the way ik i can i get like this just overall sad and dont really want to do it anymore but i think when zion gets back healthy he will look alot better

[@Epiha]

Thanks for this post, this makes more sense. I spoke kind of negative about him yesterday because I was disappointed he didn't help his team mate up. I can't wait for him to get in shape, I was hoping the games themselves will get him there but it looks more work is needed.

[@yungsyvo_00]

That's all what it is that's how I was after I hurted my ankle in HS

[@trapafuyahthree4065]

MJNAJR FACTS BRO

[@JamesDuncan1]

It's a combination of him being slightly overweight, a rookie, and coming off an injury. Sometimes it takes a full season for rookies to get acclimated to the NBA level of play.

[@VeteranVandal]

And low playoff chances.

[@whatsthe411withdruskiwilli6]

James d 💯

[@cmacbrown]

Disagree. Watch him play in the NBA before he got Injured

[@JamesDuncan1]

cmac brown are you joking? He missed the first half of the season due to injury. He hurt himself in preseason

[@cmacbrown]

@@JamesDuncan1 exactly. Watch his preseason games and his explosiveness

[@willkranzler3249]

If I had to guess... I would say he’s the type of player who is extremely over-critical of himself. I’ve dealt with this my entire sporting careers, the highs are incredible and the lows are very low. It’s about finding the center point where you can roll with the punches

[@thumpertx1]

It's more than that though. Even when he is having a great game he acts like this. Limited interaction with teammates and an almost depressed demeanor. For a rookie who missed half the season. He doesnt seem to have that fire for the game.

[@ben9262]

I blame this for why I never succeeded in baseball past middle school. I would be so afraid to make a mistake I would end up costing myself in the end. I remember vividly one game letting an easily catchable fly ball bounce in front of me because I was scared of missing it

[@mountd3w289]

Will Kranzler exactly what I was thinking

[@dictatoribenevolo8394]

I don't think an 18 year old has that much thinking in his head. particularly a professional athlete

[@snowmountainlion]

Yea he just needed to warm up to the game a lil more. Because maybe he’s over thinking the game a lil. He’s not as aggressive as you would want your future franchise player. He needs to demand the ball more. And just attack the hole, he’s gonna be at the line so often but for now he settles for the safe play

[@caelanbennett1894]

its nice to see that you actually know basketball as well as you're medical expertise, it gives you a bit more intuition and insight, nice doc!

[@BrianSuttererMD]

Thanks!

[@flightmizzarc]

Caelan Bennett i agree

[@iceswallowgum8540]

@Peezy peezy dude wtf 😂

[@iceswallowgum8540]

@Peezy peezy oh OK sounds like you are making a narrative about it tbh everyone has a story to tell depends on who wants to read into it. I just thought you were trying to say the good doctor is a racist.

[@iceswallowgum8540]

@Peezy peezy your trolling to hard it isn't believable now.

[@myrusEW]

He's probably dead tired. They probably got him on a diet and are giving him lots of cardio. His body wouldn't be used to the strict diet and extra cardio plus the stress of the nba.

[@MoXy33]

I had an overweight(extremely) guy on my Uni team... He always jogged to huddles, hustled even though he wasn't fast you could tell he was pushing himself. Zion is lazy when it comes to anything except exploding under the basket.

[@stephenjohnson6211]

no chance the medical team would give him tons of cardio on top of the games and practices when he's coming off a knee injury

[@22s22a]

He's hungry

[@stefanpapdi5151]

New Phone Who dis wrong ive heard official people say rumor has it hes 310lbs nowadays

[@bluesfan6862]

MoXy ya I agree. If you really want it, you push yourself until you don’t feel it anymore. I’m not talking about like physical pain, but endurance wise. I watched Zion the other day and he looks really lazy to me.

[@edenghxst3705]

Zion really is a football player: plays hard for a few seconds than just stands around in between plays

[@standarsh2186]

You obviously don’t know much about Zion. He’s been told to dial in his motor and use it in short spurts. NBA players do this often, so do football players, so do hockey players and so do soccer players.

[@edenghxst3705]

Stan Darsh then it makes him a liability on the court since basketball gives little to no time for rest when you are on playing. Football has time between downs, in soccer you can stand around for a few minutes. Basketball is game speed running until a whistle.

[@edenghxst3705]

May as well rest him completely until they know he is ready to safely play at 100%

[@standarsh2186]

If you think other players are not resting you are wrong. The difference is that Zion Is bad at hiding it. Lots of guys do already

[@edenghxst3705]

Stan Darsh I’ve seen players just reach and half ass on defense but those guys like Lebron and Harden play all the minutes in a game instead of only 20. Zion showed that he can go 100% for a full game if you watch his high school games but the injuries have changed him and he should rest off the court to get back to his old level.

[@youngchopper3615]

He’s too heavy, I picture him in the off season losing weight

[@WonkaBiz]

He had the injury that messed with the weight program

[@Jburneyjr]

I don't think he's losing weight. He was 270 or 280 in high school

[@toeny]

He never had a full off season. That's the problem. His life was crazy busy during the off season. And then he got injured. One full off season could recharge him pretty well

[@thenumber1baller946]

@@WonkaBiz he had a minor injury and they held him out. He could have been working out after like 2 weeks.

[@Jburneyjr]

I would believe that if he got lighter from his junior year in high school to his freshman year, however, that didn't happen.

[@dl2k671]

Zion walks like my dad

[@bradfordlangston836]

Penguin+ ? = Waluigi

[@augustinberthiaume9977]

Your dad must be fat

[@dl2k671]

@@augustinberthiaume9977 your mouth must be fat

[@dl2k671]

@@augustinberthiaume9977 jk

[@slimetruck]

Augustin Berthiaume you don’t have a dad

[@joshuabornagain4670]

He is a rookie and this is a great assessment. I hope the coaching staff are concerned and are discussing and asking questions to Zion on his behavior in the court and his lack of effort and enthusiasm on the defensive end.

[@mariofec311]

Oh man ,he is overweight but listen guys,he is also a rookie who never in his life had to play so many tight scheduled games.he is adjusting and will adjust

[@mynyramos8522]

Joshua Flecha Lmao NBA is a big corporation and they won’t let their cash cow get hurt so they hired a lot of real professional to assess him .

[@sportslegend3601]

I think he noticed how much of a business it really is and less about basketball. Keep my players healthy (especially the stars), pretty offense = maximum dollars. "We don't like you for you, we like what we make out of you"

[@k.i.aparadox1451]

Uncle Ben's Ready Rice yeah that’s what I think it id

[@ben9262]

It’s very odd. Watching him at duke it looked like he was engaged 24/7, insanely high energy, going for every rebound and block he could.

[@10ktube]

I agree totally, I'm going to guess most of this is due to his new travel to and from games, more intensity required, more games and minutes, overall stress of new experiences, etc. He's gotta get cardio up and lose some weight. And also, just mature as a person and player.

[@taco2163]

10ktube agree 100% let’s also remember he’s very young... and also new to such a huge spotlight. Stardom effects people differently. Plus we have no idea what his personal life is like as well as his family dynamic. NBA stars also have things happen that effect their moods and attitudes just like us

[@jeffreyware8778]

@@taco2163 well said

[@jjacob23_31]

10ktube GOL GOL GOL

[@kingrobinho777]

He's tired simple as that. No pre-season and a little too many lbs

[@isaiahburke7412]

He walks like my baseball coach after he had double knee replacement surgery

[@goated3285]

🤦🏽😂

[@lordkaos3676]

he’s hard on himself is my take. he’s in his head problem, i heard he’s in reserved

[@richardhagenah3469]

I feel like something with Zion is off... at duke he was much more active defensively idk if he’s not 100% yet or maybe needs to have a nba offseason before we see how he was at duke

[@ajj774]

Richie Hagenah Coach K had him in the best shape of his life.... he was built like a perfect monster.... he’s coming back from injury he’ll be fine

[@3self]

Nba.

[@jesleyrainegorembalempile3641]

True

[@joeHundo]

He playing grown men.. clearly uncomfortable out there.. doesn’t pass or get rebounds... glorified clean up man..

[@tannerfromhighschool1338]

@@joeHundo found the grizzlies fan. have fun when your garbage ass team misses playoffs again

[@InFamous029]

This reminds me of Fultz in Philly. Fultz had the same exact body language with everything that was going on with his shoulder. Could be Zion is going through something similar. Wish him well of course!

[@erickh380]

And Fultz was never the same again. I think Zion hype will die after two seasons

[@willsmath]

Agreed, I worry that without some sort of change his career might end up somewhere between Fultz and Wiggins

[@dhartley98]

Erick Hernandez hell no zion is actually good and is living up to the hype. WTH are u talking bout

[@dhartley98]

OMEGA NIG lol keep whatever he on away from me

[@devvv4616]

@@erickh380 lol, even with this liability, he's still dominating as a rookie. imagine if he solved it like how Fultz kinda improved rn

[@MeNoWorryYouNoWorry]

Everybody is asking "what top plays did Zion do?" and not "How is Zion?"

[@tannerfromhighschool1338]

how is zion? he's one of the best rookies we've ever seen. you don't have to worry about him just because of one game where he looked a little disinterested lmao

[@jannerantanen5121]

@@tannerfromhighschool1338 he was making a joke.

[@bigtomb1027]

We never know what's going on in a person's personal life

[@Ausnapify]

but we sure love to speculate

[@boz3699]

bigtomb forced LSD as most sports superstars are monarch athletes

[@JonathanCardoza]

Yeah but he's a professional basketball player.. He should be professional.

[@bigtomb1027]

@@JonathanCardoza No one is immune to stress or depression

[@sojiu1744]

@@JonathanCardoza bobo mo pinoy

[@rodaxel7165]

So he needs to work on Stamina, Endurance, effort, defensive effort and losing about 20-40 lbs of weight. Its his first year he's gonna work it out. Maybe he's going through something we don't know about. They won't make the playoffs. Just staying engaged in the game. New Orleans has some amazing food and probably eating a lot. Maybe he needs to hire his own nutritionist.

[@kvereensr1]

He can't loose 20-40 pounds of weight if he did that 1. He would not be good at basketball anymore, 2. He would die because he doesn't have much fat to loose. In reality he could only go back to weight in college 90% of weight is muscle and bone.

[@agamernamedwill2585]

Kenneth Vereen he could always burn some muscle off lol if that’s the case. He has a similar body type to lebron. If he ends up looking like lebron he will be fitter. But he has time. I just worry about his knees

[@WilsonRows]

rod axel he can lose weight but effort isn’t something you work on. You have it or you don’t.

[@blaydv2242]

A Gamer Named Will why?(not sarcastic)

[@itisnottaken4444]

Kenneth Vereen name one source that's says his muscle mass is so much that he'd die from weighing 260 instead of 280. The man is not Thanos

[@scotreyes5489]

I see what your perspective is I’ve been watching him since his return and I’m looking at his play and his disinterest as a young kid dealing with getting up to speed and conditioning. With all the talent in the world he is still in need of improving as a well rounded NBA player. He’s elite in talent not elite as a player. He’s getting a late start and we just might be seeing what he would be like if it were earlier in the season. His teammates are at speed and conditioning and he barely has 25+ games under his belt. I’m not to worried about him. I’m hoping The off-season will allow him to get strengthening and conditioning in and hopefully he won’t have to play summer league.

[@BrianSuttererMD]

Good points. Thanks for the comment

[@TrUeGaMeR2011]

i don’t think there’s a chance in hell that Zion would play in the summer league lol

[@conayoll]

he doesn't need the strength, just the conditioning hahaha

[@TrUeGaMeR2011]

cona yel i get it but he can get the conditioning outside of actual games. the risk for injury is too high to have him playing in summer league games. he already got hurt during the summer league last year.

[@mrnicj100]

@@TrUeGaMeR2011 he wasn't hurt in summer league, david griffin said himself his injury was false..

[@trip2belize]

Hope he gets better and comes back and makes this video a thing of the past. And I say with with alllllll due respect. Loved this video so much man thank you for the content. It's amazing.

[@believein1]

People in a flow state often look “sad” to “extroverts” that aren’t really deep thinkers, but remember Tim Duncan. God Bless.

[@pixeldriftcollective]

Says who?

[@tonytone3799]

I've been following the nba since the early 90s and remember Duncan when he got drafted and followed his whole career. I've never seen him look depressed on the court. Introvert and depressed are 2 very different things.

[@KingWayne714]

flow state on a basketball court is full engagement. That aint it.... His body language suggests he probably down on himself about something...

[@believein1]

tony tone Are you serious? He has always been known for looking sad on the court, I’m not sure where you grew up. I’m 41.

[@believein1]

KingWayne714 If you’re a non-thinker.

[@chrisworland7754]

I've noticed this as well and think it's somewhat due to being able to casually beat all his opponents at the high school level and year at duke. He could turn his effort on and off as it was easy but when he really has demands put on him being a now professional athlete he just retreats and picks his moments which I'm sure would frustrate teammates and possibly lead to a disconnect with him

[@Christhedon96]

This is the reason Ik he’s been overrated this season.

[@tonyavant1773]

@@Christhedon96 lmao he's scoring at a high percentage at on low minutes great job. Wait isn't he averaging 23 points a game and 6 rebounds lmao aye sometimes it's good to base your opinion on what u see instead of what other people say oh I think ja is averaging 16 or 17 points a game by the way meaning if he played the whole season he would be rookie of the year and since he didn't he didn't play as many game THATS WHAT'S GOING TO CAUSE HIM NOT TO WIN IT.

[@toneloc237]

Tony Avant if Zion played more games sure he would average less you can’t compare when Zion has a handful of games compared to ja

[@ja1720]

I noticed his half hearted close outs, not rotating or helping on defense, slow jogging back when the opposing team is breaking but as soon as there’s a scoring opportunity he explodes or sprints down the court when he’s leading the break. Idk how him saving his energy only for offensive purposes is going to sit with his teammates. I’d rather have Ja, or even Barrett, White, Herro, Clarke, etc, if that’s the effort I’m gonna get from Zion

[@tonyavant1773]

@@toneloc237 what yea I can. He does more in half the minutes

[@GiStIncreDiBle]

Doctor: Zion is not showing any defensive effort and he’s not running back. James Harden: Hold my beer

[@buster8607]

Cringey ass kid

[@GiStIncreDiBle]

@@buster8607 Lmao u mad bro

[@eric1331]

I would imagine maybe this has something to do with the fact that he's playing for the Pelicans. They aren't a terrible team, but he probably had hopes of being on a different team.

[@thetruthshallsetyoufree2040]

He's the first pick, they all play for low teams

[@Dillio4321]

Eric B. Besides the market of NO the pelicans were a better option for him to land their for just about every lottery team except the lakers.

[@gershomtan5879]

You don’t get to choose where you play as a rookie. You don’t get to choose how much effort you put into the game as a professional. You put your 100% out on the court for the fans who pay to see you play.

[@RealEstateMover]

Nah he loves playing for the team they have great pieces nd all mess. He’s just tired honestly

[@ltdee1970]

AbsolutelyWrong

[@pfff4549]

Thank you for pointing it out as I watched most of his games and have the same wondering too

[@ral147]

I agree Doc, Zion is not a leader yet, usually guys that sulk like that in game have some emotional issues. He's probably overwhelmed with the stress of the league in addition to keeping himself healthy. It looks like he doesn't care to much to lead at the moment, but his time of maturation will come.

[@JACKTHESEAPIG]

Long shot, could the Pelicans be having on a calorie deficit to loose weight which is why he is looking tired?

[@kan7i15a23]

Dr. Sutterer! Interesting video. This wasn't your typical physical analysis and I think you should do more like this. Sports psychology is topic I haven't come across much on youtube. However, I do think we're being a bit too hard for now. This is not surprising seeing that Zion is a rookie. Lonzo Ball had the same effect when I saw him on the Lakers. He was a bit confused, disconnected, he walked away from a fight when Nick Young got into it. But look at him now! He's way more confident and is balling out. You should put out a follow up video to this in his Zion's 3rd season. Keep up the good work!

[@BrianSuttererMD]

Great points and thank you for the kind words about the topic.

[@bleyk6454]

I think he was being conservative and selective of when to spend his energy on to which is a good thing.

[@ja1720]

Saving your energy on defense, and getting back on defense, will get you cut

[@bleyk6454]

@@ja1720 not if you provide points, inside presence and physicality as much as he does. first of all the backcourts are responsible for transition d and over hustling is not worth the risk especially if its not in playoff.

[@ja1720]

flwr blssm only the backcourt is responsible for transition D? That’s laughable

[@ja1720]

flwr blssm the last time I checked, you need to get into the playoffs in order to hustle in the playoffs

[@bleyk6454]

@@ja1720 he just got back from an injury and you expect him to risk it with a low chance rate of securing a playoffs spot lol. laugh all you want backcourts are resposible for transition d initially not the bigs who are the farthest down the paint lol.

[@PoeOutdoors]

Great evaluation, appreciate your content. I wonder if Zion isn't facing the same thing Todd Marinovich did as a rookie with the Raiders. I remember him being disappointed in his first game saying something like "this is it?" Some of these kids feel the pressure from 8 years old to be the next big thing even if they don't want to be the next big thing, they just want to play a game. Beyond that, the physical and mental stress of playing 82 games, the travel and media demands wears on a person. Gronkowski, Luck and Kuechly walked away young and I think we will continue to see shorter careers from professional athletes in other sports. Zion is fun to watch but his overall well-being is much more important.

[@maxcharlsen3098]

You’re from Minnesota??

[@fried_tacos1587]

He lives in Indy at least from what I've seen on online, probably was in for family or work

[@momoneylessproblems9183]

Pretty sure Zion just misses college. Last year he played for the most storied basketball program in the NCAA. They were the best team in the nation. They were always winning. Him RJ Trae & Cam were boys. He was a national sensation. He was probably the most popular person on campus. And now he's on the Pelicans. And they're not even in playoff contention right now.

[@reinderrider45]

He is still going off. thats just how he walks he’s goofy.

[@justinfrazier9555]

Bro he didn't even bother to help his teammate up come on he laying right there and he doesn't even glance over. Other dude comes over and helps him up.

[@reinderrider45]

Justin Frazier Im sorry it bothers you so much bro. Zion is in the NBA to do much bigger things than be a good teammate. Mamba Mentality

[@jonathanfleming809]

danny that is not mamba mentality 😂Kobe would never do this

[@markoliver314]

LOL “mamba mentality” and yet he looks lazy and uninterested.

[@nunusknees2928]

@@markoliver314 You let this guy convince you Zion is "lazy" from one in person experience...

[@bballcoachallen]

I think Zion was being forced to play after his major injury (I also had a torn ACL) I know what its like trying to return and its hard. I couldn't do it. He could be fighting through some demons in his head scaring him about playing and re-injuring the knee (took me 8 years to get over that). Or he could be upset with being forced back before he should be back.

[@urgandma]

I'd be depressed too if I knew that I was predisposed to blowing out my knees.

[@datrandompersononyoutube3061]

He's literally Blake Griffin 2.0

[@ankletaker2729]

Not funny but good try

[@kombe971]

😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@LunaticTheCat]

@@ankletaker2729 I think he's kinda being serious. The way Zion's knees are bent is fucked. His knees are structurally deformed.

[@fangiscool1]

The knees just gotta survive a couple more years until he gets a max contract

[@charlestinotenda8358]

*Dear DOCTOR* Firstly, good work covering this game and producing killer content as usual.... I *Agree* with your analysis *BUT* I feel you are missing one key point. *Zion* is playing this way because his *doctors* told him to... His first few games he proved he could dominate on every play in offense or defence. His team doctors advised him to *slow down* on the rebounds and the bursts just until he gets back to near 100% which might be next year..... In terms of *endurance* , ZION might actually have one of the best but it is still too early for him to showcase it.....

[@blakelip3]

Zion looks timid out there moving

[@trapdkay-3529]

Rip Van it’s pretty obvious he’s playing conservative and just getting in shape all these people in the comment section are just being weird, and jumping to the most wild conclusions

[@chuckjacobs3239]

What up Blake!!!!

[@jdub3943]

Some of the laboring and heavy footed steps is that he has to get his conditioning up due to his injury causing him to miss time. He is on the fly learning new body mechanics while playing in the NBA against some of the best athletes in the world. Give him some time lol he’s a rookie.

[@TaiChino]

Maybe he’s just going through stuff like they put so much pressure on him and maybe he thinks he can’t live up to it so he’s doubting himself 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@diegochavez679]

Tf you talking about he's averaging 24ppg shooting 65% he chilling yet breaking NBA records and scores on anyone😂

[@TaiChino]

Diego Chavez you can average them numbers and still feel off

[@coolstufftodo5256]

I think it can all come down the him coming off an Injury and being frustrated at not being 100%. Also not overdoing it so he doesn’t re injure himself. I think this offseason will help and he will come back bigger and better then ever

[@joeymayfield1481]

Zion is perfect the way he is, just like you.

[@XcocomocoX]

No

[@LunaticTheCat]

That's not the way the world works lol

[@WutTheDeuceGaming]

He's a #1 pick, the drive should always be there. What's weird is, everyone else says his effort is A+. He's always played like this tbh.

[@tommywalters8581]

It looks to me like his gait might be off and he still wobbles a little, which you said in a previous video might indicate hip pain. I'm not exactly sure, I figured you would say something about it if you thought that was the case

[@sethmaldonado5070]

He is 19 bruh. To deal with the stress of turning an entire franchise around at that age getting that amount of money thrown at you , its stressful I'm sure. I will say he is one of the most humble kids I've seen, he sees the big picture. He isn't selfish, he isnt arrogant, he jells well with his teammates. He might just be down that he cant go 100%. He probably wants to but he is probably told to relax a little and not be jumping when not necessary or what not. If this is the nba finals he isnt going 75% like this. But they have slim odds to make the playoffs and risking injury is dumb, and he is on a minute restriction. That alone gives you an idea that someone is telling him not to go 100%

[@mruso2]

Hey doc, I have an upper hamstring grade 2. How could I get in good shape to go quick?

[@LunaticTheCat]

Go to a doctor lol

[@doug186]

Glad you pointed this out. I can tell from watching TV that he’s half-assing back on defense. He couldn’t get away with that at Duke. Hopefully the coaches aren’t afraid to hurt his feelings.

[@toastytopics2614]

Sweet lord, he's a 19 year old over weight rookie who just came off an injury and surgery? Is that not enough?

[@Tdope768]

Haven't you heard?! Everybody in this comment section has a PhD in psychology and know everything about a dude just from watching clips...

[@mac-gustavemulondak1679]

No it's not enough: he is neither the first nor the last rookie, he's being considered as a superstar he should act minimum like a star, the most introvert player in the league is emotionless robotic Kawhi Leonard but even him would pick up a teammates who's down and great teeammates and fans when leaving the court, Ja Morant who is the same age is leading a whole team with energy and drive ... imagine if Kyrie doing this everybody would desturb us on medias... TO END IT ALL (1) ZION HAS NO MERIT TO RUN FOR FOR ROTY WITH THIS LACK OF DRIVE (2) HE IS CLEARLY ONE OF THE MOST TALENTED ROOKIES BUT IF HE DOESN'T STEP UP, HE'LL SOON GO DOWN AS A FAILURE

[@toastytopics2614]

@@mac-gustavemulondak1679 Damm, you must his judge and jury?! The nerve you got judging a 19 year old as I stated. So it sounds like when you where 19 years old you were a walking illuminating light of perfection in which all can kind can learn and be like. Fuck out of here. God said as you judge so shall you be judged.

[@Ausnapify]

Zion has already gifted all his teammates twice. That's ONE play where you see he didn't help a teammate up and he probably didn't see him. Sheesh get a life.

[@roscoedash6673]

@@mac-gustavemulondak1679 I think you're overreacting. Zion looked really tired in that clip. He could've been so tired that he couldn't think or even realize what was going on. Zion probably has never worked as hard as he is right now at any point in his life. Also, with how damn big Zion is I wouldn't be surprised if he was diabetic or pre-diabetic and that could be affecting him as well.

[@valegendre]

Zion is a kid ,a very young man, let's not forget that. Not everyone can be the best ,in his rookie year like MJ back in the days. He needs to grow as a player but most importantly as a man ,it takes time .

[@immortalcbox8769]

Zion has spurts of looking like a young fit shaq and the older heavier shaq.

[@willliam1420]

A real eye opener, thanks doc Best player evaluation of Zion I've seen so far.

[@newaccounttime]

I’ve been saying that he looks so tired and 'bored' when he’s out there. Like he walks around like he doesn’t care, and I’ve never seen a rookie act like that before. I don’t know how to explain it but the dude needs to lighten up and have fun cause the way he carries himself isn’t pleasing to look at lol

[@shizrnes]

I really liked this video, and your voice is very soothing.

[@eviln00b69]

Watching him, both while playing and then just walking, makes me feel like he needs to work on his gait. It appears really awkward and off. You mentioned it in a previous video where he almost looks knocked kneed.

[@ballislife9924]

He looks like his legs are at completely different lengths. I'm still not convinced he can be a healthy NBA star. His biomechanics look almost as bad as Rose when compared.

[@LunaticTheCat]

His knees are bent inwards, like the bone structure is like that. That's not something that can be fixed, it's a physical deformity. One of my elbows is like that (25 degree bend) because I broke the growth plate at age 4. It's not something that can be fixed without catastrophic surgery that would end up making things worse. I think Zion was born with knees that are like my elbow; that's what it looks like to me.

[@jcar8868]

I think you made a fair observation on Zion's body language. Best case scenario it is the grind of the season, with all the traveling from city to city along with practice, meetings, media obligations, etc., just simply catching up to him. Worst case scenario, he might be depressed with the amount of pressure of not only carrying a team but also a city. We have to remember that he's still young, so it'll a while before we see what he can really do.

[@anan-fw8dp]

Zion needs to weigh at most 270 I feel like he needs to weigh 260 cause I feel like at 250 or 240 would change the way he plays and would affect him in a bad way

[@luisbarrios289]

Nah 250 still too big at 240 he’d be a beast

[@stefanpapdi5151]

Sandro San-San he is 310 right now based on pelicans rumors lel

[@anan-fw8dp]

Stefan Papdi if he is that’s fucking nuts

[@Tdope768]

@@luisbarrios289 Zion is naturally a large specimen. He was 240 as a younger teen in HS. He doesn't even have his grown man body yet.

[@LunaticTheCat]

If he doesn't get down to 240 it won't matter if he's a better player at a heavier weight, because he'll end up blowing out his knees. His gate is fucked.

[@mattk1703]

Keep up the great work. You inspire me

[@TheGymromeShow]

Bro, he’s a 19 year old calm down. I don’t know what’s more of an overreaction...this video or how people are acting like covid-19 is the end of the world 🤦‍♂️

[@thegoodbrothersifu]

Well said..let him be 19. I've seen him help his teammates up many times. When my son was 19 he was a space cadet...lol he dropped 23 and 7 boards, 1 block, 3 assist..in a win..let him be 19.

[@clinicaltranscription1190]

TheGymromeShow - Or maybe Zion’s got covid-19 too? 😂

[@ja1720]

I’m actually more worried that he has zero stamina at 19. He’s only playing 28 minutes a game while taking a break every other play. I don’t think you get more energy as you age

[@Eggbergster]

Also worth noting this was his second back to back and 4th game in 5 nights. Could be a factor to low energy

[@IntrustGames]

He’s basically out of high school so it’s just a learning thing he hasn’t adjusted yet.

[@BrianSuttererMD]

Fair point and I agree with the effect of being young. But these are aspects of his game that could easily get ignored and get pushed down among the highlights we see on TV

[@Rmonta990]

I agree with school, being at school with people or the same age, and being more chill about basketball. Is far different from being a professional player being with adults. He is living in a city that he doesn't know. He might be famous there, but he also might be alone far from his homeland.

[@tntsection1201]

You want to chunk it up and say “He just walk weird” but then you realize there’s always some sort of science behind it

[@Strype13]

Yeah, he definitely doesn't seem to have the motivation & drive required to be the superstar everybody assumed he would be. Kinda sad, honestly. At this point, it feels like he might just amount to a load of wasted potential.

[@loganholland3870]

He's still putting up amazing numbers, what are you talking about. Watch full games, don't settle for highlights or lowlights (like this video) and you'll realize how good he is. His footwork, skill, iq, and dominance is advanced for a rookie, stop hating just to hate.

[@bluesfan6862]

Logan Holland I agree. He is a beast. But as of RN most of his point are cherry-picks, or just easy 1v1 buckets with no help. To me, it looks like he doesn’t even want the ball. He isn’t really grabbing boards, no perimeter defense, screens, etc. he just stands there unless it’s his turn to post up. I haven’t really seen that same passion he had at duke either. I’m not a hater and I hope Zion become a beast because he really seems like a genuine good kid, but to me it seems like its more than just “tired from new NBA schedual.”

[@2299mikey]

Logan Holland yeah and KAT puts up great numbers too. Him and Zion have a lot in common they’re great at taking advantage of mismatches but they completely shut down on defense and if you get physical with them.

[@loganholland3870]

@@2299mikey I'm not seeing the comparison between Kat and Zion, but I know what your saying.

[@loganholland3870]

@@bluesfan6862 Blues fan I'll agree with you to a certain extent, however Zion gets most of his points from being in the right spot and in the full court. And as you said he just tired from playing all the time, look at the college schedule vs the NBA's. His trainers are also telling him not to always go up for everything and take possessions off, after all he just came back from a knee injury.

[@WheresMyLasagna]

I had a hard time moving out of my parents house and adjusting to living on my own so i couldn't imagine having to do that while being a worldwide superstar with high expectations lol. The older I get the more I respect these athletes for the sacrifices they have to make in order to keep playing sports. Life on the road probably takes a huge toll on these guys mentally. It takes a whole lot more than just physical skill to be successful

[@EJeezy530]

Zion walk like somebody uncle lmaoo

[@Jburneyjr]

To answer you question about him in college as opposed to him in the NBA. He's playing 2 times a week outside of conference tournament time. Longer shot clock and less possessions per game also contribute to him potentially having more energy.

[@jamestrickingtonIII]

Bro, he's still a teenager...

[@Donoloui]

Exactly. Guess you have to be on 100 every single game when you’re a superstar. Never know who’s watching, and will post a negative video lol.

[@mustafaafzal4749]

ADOS SACTO He acknowledged that at 7:22. And the person above me is absolutely correct.

[@jamestrickingtonIII]

@@mustafaafzal4749 OK, dad.

[@ToLooseGoose]

Not to worried about it. If you watch him on the bench or at the end of losses. He really doesn't like losing and he really doesn't like getting benched during crunch time. At the beginning of the season the pelicans were predicted to make the playoffs. And he was supposed to be at the center of that, but injury and coming back to a team that's 4-5 games out of 8th seed. He expected more from his teammates and himself. Him being a rookie and having to deal with that is reasonably difficult. We just happen notice that because he's Zion.

[@thafinessekid7879]

I always thought he looked like he didn’t wanna be there... interesting

[@rodjones101]

Good call Doc! You’re right on the money with your observation. Not sure what this young man has to feel sad or depressed about.... but something certainly is going on.

[@ImmahfirinmahShadowz]

I recommend that we give the guy a little more time. Of course, we'd like to see him show full effort more but he's still a teenager and has more cardio work in front of him. Not to mention all of the times I've watched guys like LeBron and Harden completely take possessions off. They're still incredible players but basketball is taxing on the body. Also, it's dangerous to add your interpretation of the way someone is thinking. Yes, body language is important and Zion should consider these physical and outward habits but, based on your discussion, you're falling into the prototypical media approach of "worst-case scenario" talking about a guy who is still nineteen. That being said, not helping up Melli wasn't cool. I'll agree with that. Maybe Melli stole his dinner.

[@messamontana6934]

Glad I’m not the only one that has noticed this. It’s really evident during defense. But dude is doing great and he hasn’t even put in the same effort and energy on the court as he has in the past. Imagine if he put 100% in, goodness! I’m pretty sure the injury, recovery, time restrictions and team losses have discouraged Zion.

[@orionstrongman2656]

That young man is adjusting. Possessing a friendly demeanor matched with high expectations of himself and an intense desire to win, he is finding himself and his balance. Zion is a true beast, mark my words, this league is his.

[@philippherrmann1243]

I mean this is his first year in the NBA . He has like almost everyday a game, maybe he can't sleep enough. Give this Kid enough time, maybe he has a hard time right now.

[@philippherrmann1243]

But you are right at the most points he need to do something against that...

[@dl2k671]

A team should hire u

[@SliceofBread123]

You know every pro sports team has medical consultants right? For like every single field? Ex sleep doctors

[@lxnnrz]

no

[@ateddybear1392]

I think the Pelicans have told him to not go 100% and take it easy. And then in the offseason work his body like hell to have him ready for next year.. Cuz as a Duke fan i watched how he was 150% all game, every game last year and even locking up guards.. So ive just been thinking hes been told to chill out a lot more. Which makes me more impressed with his 23 & 7 average

[@BrianSuttererMD]

I agree, and I think it's left him wondering what to do and a bit bummed by not having that constant excitement and dominance like he had at duke and even summer league before injury

[@EntityAbyss]

I feel like you're overreacting a bit. A lot of this stuff is normal. Especially if you consider that he's a rookie that wants to play well. Seems like normal frustration. He looks fine to me. None of these plays stood out at all. He probably didn't help Melli off the floor, because he was focused on the call, and didn't think about it. I don't think it helps to become another guy over analyzing everything he does. He's only 19.

[@ellamennop]

an intense amount of pressure on a young kid, dealing with injuries already, always in a spotlight, in a new city, etc. not speculating about him specifically, but if a person were already inclined towards depression, these factors could certainly make things harder. hope he's ok, much love.

[@bosshogzoomer3995]

A lot of the body language is a result of immaturity and bad coaching when he didnt help up his teammate. My concern is he's playing injured and him walking imbalanced. His spinal column is definitely misaligned,which could led to other injuries. I doubt very seriously if Zion will ever be an 82gm player. Hope I'm wrong.

[@mr.swagzhighlights284]

I think he honestly just feels LIMITED!!! There’s a lot of talent on the pelicans, and it leaves a very small window for Zion to be an innovator within the system. It’s like they’re treating him like a traditional BIG MAN when he’s capable of SO MUCH MORE!!!

[@henrizzays]

Your reaching man, he has always moved like that.

[@Moji019]

Surely zion has a personal physician looking after him. We all know he is kinda overweight, I simply think his type of play is to make him last longer in his career. History taught us that injuries ruin great players, pretty sure he and his doctors know that so I'm not very surprise about this

[@Egghead1199]

He’s a rookie dealing with the nba schedule and play. That’s it

[@erickh380]

Lamest excuse in the book.

[@2299mikey]

The ManDragon he had like 4 months of not having to play while adjusting to the nba schedule. He should have no issues at this point

[@Egghead1199]

2299mikey he didn’t play in those 4 months. And was doing rehab so he didn’t travel much. And he’s a rookie playing against nba players it’s a pro league stfu idiots.

[@e3erockstar08]

I appreciate your honesty. Raw, and no chaser.

[@BrianSuttererMD]

Thanks

[@cptnspicywiener]

Do you think it’s possible his medical staff recommended that he take it easy in games?

[@bluesfan6862]

I would imagine no because if Zion isn’t producing, the team isn’t making $$.

[@2299mikey]

CptnSpicyWeiner no. They wouldn’t have taken off his minutes restriction if they were worried about his workload.

[@MrakdNadvladar]

You are 100 percent on with your assessment of Zion I’ve watched about 8 games of his and it’s clear to see he is being affected by some inner lying issues as a person who has bipolar and other mental health issues it’s clear to see it’s all over his face and body language great breakdown of this topic 👍

[@AB-fv4ms]

He dont want to be in that ghost town he wants to come to a big city NYC

[@AlexandreG]

You're kidding right? 😂😂😂

[@meditationmayham3590]

scot msp He is from South Carolina. There is not much of difference between SC and Louisiana

[@AB-fv4ms]

@@meditationmayham3590 he lived in that ghost town his whole life with farmes and shit aint no one want to play in a city with windpipes and shit

[@obnoxiouslakerfan]

Gentry doesn’t emphasize defense enough - let’s remember he made AD into an offense first kind of player - and lots of young guys raised thru the AAU circuit act similarly - lonzo and Ingram act like that a lot too. Hope we see him in playoffs where he’s not afraid of going all out on both ends and not as afraid of injury

[@jasonbeedon9867]

I’m afraid this doctor doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Zion is 19 and is working his way into shape. That’s it. Doc is obsessed about minor issues.

[@biglloyd5870]

Jason Beedon 19 has very little to do with it

[@keronlewis4611]

I agree and I 100% noticed his slouching and laziness on defense but conditioning plays a huge role. Hr definitely has increased his production and awareness from his first game back to now but I think his coaches and trainers are probably hard on him about not doing any extra unnecessary bending or straining until he's 100% ready to play an 82 game season. Also he's probably in his own head alot in things to do or not to do, because they are not fully ingrained muscle memory. It's hard to be explosive in the offense and defense while still relearning how to walk, run and jump to not injure yourself

[@JoeSmoe1]

Doc, too much Zion content man. Turning into an obsession

[@BrianSuttererMD]

Obsession or fascination? Honestly his blend of body , play style, and athleticism fascinates me and many others. Views reflect that people like it too.

[@JoeSmoe1]

@@BrianSuttererMD No need to get offended man. Just saying the content has been a little Zion heavy lately.

[@lofidrive6726]

There has been a lot of Zion Stuff, but Honestly id take this over some of the gruesome content lol

[@TheDarkZonePilot]

Ive come to know this as the "Zion Daily report" channel and im kinda ok with that lol. Aint nothing else to really talk about, and Zion is basically free views

[@normaambriz5728]

Doc brings a new perspective to Zion’s game 😎

[@TheDarth24]

I agree completely. Ive always said he should average 9+ rebounds with his hops and bulk but every-time a teammate shoots he literally is backing away from rim before its either made or missed.

[@straightfromtheshoulders416]

He just gifted the whole team a pair of his new shoes b4 dat gave all they ass watches. Get off that 19yr older back

[@ja1720]

Well, why didn’t you say that in the first place? Zion is now excused from hustling back on defense, closing out on shooters, helping teammates up and building chemistry on and off the court. Everybody get off his back! He bought his teammates gifts!!

[@ETGK]

From what I’ve heard, he put on that weight/muscle in a short amount of time and so he’s barely had time to figure out what he’s meant to do with it. It’s like when a hero gets his powers and now he’s joining a squad with other heroes with an expectation that he will be the main guy. He has a lot of pressure on his massive shoulders and he’s only 19. My biggest fear is that his knees and ankles are always gonna be 80% throughout his career and it will only take a small push for them to go. Could be the next big guy or the next injury prone bench warmer. Good luck Zion, you’ll need it.

[@robertojeda9557]

I’m glad you opened my eyes from your perspective being at the game, I grew with you... great vid

[@leslie7872]

great assesment and a really interesting perspective. i think people in the comments are down playing how important "effort" and body language really is.

[@ROLLYROLLOT]

Statistically he and Antetokounmpo are the only two players scoring over 24 ppg while averaging less than 31 minutes per game. I know you need content but this is kinda ridiculous. From an eye test, his issues are probably more related to an underdevelopment of the aerobic energy system (recovery of the alactic system after those powerful bursts), a consequence of having to play himself into shape more than anything.

[@malemanjulpax2155]

You should do a wilt Chamberlain examine. He's the freak of all freak

[@coachwane]

Agreed

[@joegarrison5911]

Being injured, 48 minute games, going from place to place traveling everyday, intense workout regime, very great expectations on his shoulders probably add to his disinterest

[@terryanheuser3989]

He makes me think of my Saint Bernard, burst of energy for 10 minutes, then takes a nap. This happens to people who are tall and heavy, I speak from experience as I am 6'7" and 265. We need those breaks.

[@ryanbahnsen6429]

Realize that the NBA is a 48 minute game compared to a 40 minute college game. To a player with stamina issues this will take some time getting used to. Remember he only played part of 1 season in college and has been out about half of the NBA season. Give him time and he will adjust to the pace of the game.

[@kbandzhuncho8420]

Bro he’s coming off an injury and jumping straight into the hardest league in the world with damn near the highest expectations anyone could have SHUT UP ..