“Pretty elite” These were the words Jrue Holiday used to describe the debut of his former teammate Zion Williamson. And over the years, Zion has lived up to that praise. Although he faced a lot of criticism because of his weight, he only responded with performance. However, he was unable to lead the Pelicans beyond the play-ins during his four seasons with the team. But now that Jrue has two championship titles under his belt, he’s in a great position to impart some wisdom to the NOP forward to help him break the curse.

This came up on the P with Paul George podcast when the Celtics star was asked what advice he would give Zion. Before offering any advice, he praised the 24-year-old, saying: “I think Zion is one of the most talented or gifted players I have ever seen. Athletic ability, how he can get to the rim and get past people.” The NBA community witnessed his remarkable performance. Jrue then set out to highlight the deal: “Sometimes it feels like fitness is all that matters.”

Jrue believes that a talent like Zion doesn’t quite fit the Pelicans’ roster and that a move could be beneficial for his future, similar to what the 34-year-old has done in his career. Jrue explained: “Maybe I don’t know if they need to adjust the fit to him down there or maybe he needs to slip out and have a different fit on someone else. But I feel like he needs a change somehow because he shows promise.”

He then reflected on Zion’s rookie season with the franchise as he was present to witness that season “great” Skills. While discussing the past, Jrue also addressed the constant criticism Zion has faced regarding his weight, mostly coming from Stephen A. Smith. “And you see him, they talk about the weight gain and all that, but I saw him at 280, 290 still such an ass around,” he added. There was actually a time when Zion weighed around 300 pounds, but that didn’t stop him from being the talented player Jrue thinks he is. However, according to Yahoo Sports, he recently pushed his limits and reduced his weight to 281 pounds.

If there’s one thing Jrue emphasized time and time again, it was: “Something needs to be fixed down there because he’s way too good to go to the play-ins every year and not get there.” During his tenure, the Pelicans qualified for three play-in tournaments and from there managed to advance to the first round of the playoffs twice. However, due to his injuries, Zion missed all but one game last season. Otherwise, his presence could have brought about a different story for the franchise.

Even now, less than two months into the new season, the injury is taking its toll on him. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Zion will be sidelined for several weeks due to his serious hamstring injury. The insider reported: “I’ve been told (Zion) that Williamson is not remotely close to returning… Normally the injury lasts four to six weeks… but the Pelicans are preparing for him to be out beyond that point. I was told he had several hamstring injections.”

Jrue followed his advice for Zion and was asked how he would have coached him in Willie Green’s place. The combo guard then delivered his best solution.

Jrue Holiday on coaching Zion Williamson

Jrue showered Zion with many compliments, but if there is one area he would focus on as New Orleans coach, it would be Zion Williamson’s defense. “I would let him play a little more defense.” He quickly added: “This is not a blow to him” however, stressed that a defensive push was needed to improve Zion’s game

“Offensively, bro, I think he got it.” Jrue said. “I think he’s doing what he’s supposed to do. I think he’s a playmate for other people. I think he’s reaching the edge. He gets to the free throw line. But I think if he challenges himself defensively and his teammates see that, I think they will follow.”

Zion has only played in six games so far this season, averaging 22.7 points with 8 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. However, his defense has often hurt the team in the past. However, he currently has an improved defensive rating of 118.1 this season, and when he’s back on the field, he may be able to work on that, as the ex-Pelican suggested.