Zion Williamson Hits Two Threes in Pelicans Loss
The New Orleans star displayed an expanded shooting range in Wednesday's loss to the Indiana Pacers.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Basketball
Zion Williamson scored 22 points and connected on two three-point shots during the New Orleans Pelicans loss to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday. The forward showcased a new shooting rhythm while maneuvering past defenders.
Why it matters
Williamson's increased willingness to shoot from behind the arc adds a new dimension to his offensive game. This shift could significantly alter team defensive schemes and elevate his overall fantasy basketball value this season.
Williamson recorded 22 points while successfully converting two three-point attempts. This effort marks a stark contrast to his 2025-26 season, where he finished with only one three-pointer made over 62 games.
The players
Zion Williamson
He is an explosive forward for the New Orleans Pelicans who was selected first overall in the 2019 NBA Draft.
New Orleans Pelicans
This is a professional basketball team competing in the Western Conference of the National Basketball Association.
Indiana Pacers
This is a professional basketball team based in Indianapolis that competes in the Eastern Conference of the NBA.
The details
Late in the game, Williamson utilized a pump fake to clear his defender before shooting a three-pointer while the team trailed by three. His ability to space the floor during the final moments of the clock indicates a tactical evolution in his play style.
Timeline
Wednesday, October 21, 2026: The New Orleans Pelicans played the Indiana Pacers.
2025-26 season: Zion Williamson played 62 games for the team.
Season Trajectory
Williamson's development as a perimeter shooter signals a tactical shift that could fundamentally change the spacing for the Pelicans' offense. This adjustment may force opponents to guard him further from the basket, altering the team's standing in a competitive Western Conference.
Fantasy managers should prioritize monitoring Williamson's three-point attempts as a potential source of added scoring output. This change likely increases his utility in formats that reward efficiency and spacing capability.
The takeaway
Players who incorporate outside shots into their repertoire force defenses to abandon crowded paint schemes. This strategic adaptation is a vital step for stars looking to remain effective in the modern era of the game.
Further reading
For more updates on player performance, visit New Orleans Basketball.
