One of the biggest storylines that will take over the NBA this offseason is what will the New Orleans Pelicans do with Zion Williamson?

Williamson is likely to miss the remainder of the 2021-22 season after undergoing a procedure for a foot fracture last offseason but running into some complications during rehab.

Despite not playing in a game this season, Williamson has garnered plenty of headlines. His future in New Orleans is something that has seemingly been discussed since they landed the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft via the lottery. His family and people in his camp want him out of New Orleans and that chatter will only get louder this offseason.

Some people believe he will ultimately end up with the New York Knicks, but plenty of teams will show interest in him should he be put on the trade block. Because of how NBA contracts are structured, Williamson could push for a trade this offseason to maximize his future earnings.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Chances Of Zion Williamson Playing Before End Of Season, Revealed

If he is traded this offseason, whoever acquires him can work out a rookie extension. That means he would be eligible for a supermax, which comes after you have been in the league for 10 seasons.

If Williamson is traded after signing a rookie extension, he will not be eligible for that supermax and will have to wait until he has accrued 10 years of experience.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Chances Of Zion Williamson Playing Before End Of Season, Revealed

Given his injury concerns, maximizing his earnings as soon as possible is something that could be important to him. If a trade is going to be requested, numerous teams will line up to acquire him despite the injury red flags.

Could the Atlanta Hawks be one of those teams? Let’s take a look at this deal which lands Williamson in the Peach State with the Hawks.