Zion Williamson Praised by New Pelicans HC Jamahl Mosley, Star 'Hasn't Even Scratched the Surface'

New Orleans Pelicans star forward Zion Williamson drew high praise from new head coach Jamahl Mosley, who believes the former Duke star has potential to reach greater heights in the league.

"He hasn't even scratched the surface of things he can do," Mosley told reporters Tuesday at his introductory press conference (h/t ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk). "I really do believe that. And I think being able to open the floor up more for him, attacking, being able to play him in different positions, because he's an excellent basketball player with a high IQ for playmaking, for making guys around him better, knowing when to make plays and the right passes to make."

Williamson arrived in the league in 2019 with incredible hype after his lone season at Duke. He was the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA draft.

While Williamson has made two All-Star Games, injuries have unfortunately hindered his progress. He's played just 276 games, or less than the equivalent of three-and-a-half full NBA seasons. Williamson has played just 60 or more games in a season on three occasions.

However, he's an exceptional talent, averaging 23.8 points on 59.1 percent shooting, 6.4 rebounds and 4.1 assists for his career. He'll be 26 years old entering next season and could very well hit another height.

Mosley was asked about how he get better utilize Williamson's skills.

"I think just opening the floor up a lot more for him to attack the basket, giving space, being able to live at the free throw line consistently," Mosley said. "Some of the things he's done here have been obviously spectacular—and so just making sure that we continue that along with us being healthy."

New Orleans faces an uphill climb to compete in the Western Conference after finishing 26-56, a full 11 games outside the play-in tournament picture.

The team has young and exciting talent to build around, including Jeremiah Fears and Derek Queen, as well as veterans like Williamson and Trey Murphy III who could take further steps.

However, the team has endured its fair share of struggles, injuries and growing pains. Last year's squad finished outside the top 20 in offensive and defensive efficency.

The Pels hope Mosley, the Orlando Magic's ex-head coach, can jump-start this team and guide it back to the playoffs. Getting the most out of Williamson's talent marks a good start on that front.