A bonus of $16.9 million will be given to Zion Williamson after the clash with the Bucks

The New Orleans Pelicans enter Friday’s matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks with more than just positioning on the line. Zion WilliamsonContract incentives have moved into focus as his in-game milestones have major financial implications for the franchise cornerstone.

Williamson has appeared in 40 games this season and is in the midst of a 30 game streak without missing a contest. If he does against the Bucks, that streak will reach 31 straight games. His continued availability has reshaped the conversation around the salary guarantees built into his contract.

Marc Stein of Stein Line highlighted the achievement of durability Thursday on X (formerly known as Twitter), highlighting how sharply this season contrasts with last year.

“If Zion Williamson plays Friday against Milwaukee, it will be his 31st consecutive game without a shutout for the Pelicans.

Williamson appeared in a total of 30 games last season.

Stein noted that the six-year veteran has already surpassed last season’s game total. That consistency puts him one game away from a significant contract trigger.

Third Apron’s Yossi Gozlan later expanded on Stein’s platform report, explaining how Friday’s Pelicans vs. Bucks contest could provide significant guaranteed money.

“Sion Williamson will also have $16.9 million (40 percent) of his 2026-27 salary guaranteed by suiting up for his 41st game of the season tomorrow.”

He would get an additional $8.4 million (20 percent) if he played in 51 games and another if he played in 61 games.

Gozlan’s review details the structure of Williamson’s contract, which ties portions of his 2026-2027 salary to certain playing thresholds. By reaching 41 games, the former No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft would secure roughly 40 percent of that season’s base salary.

Reaching 51 and 61 games would trigger additional guarantees worth millions more if he stays healthy. For the Pelicans, who sit at No. 14 in the Western Conference standings, that durability provides stability and long-term clarity while increasing their future financial commitment.

Friday’s showdown therefore carries weight beyond the table. It represents a key checkpoint in Williamson’s season, combining performance, health and long-term salary security in one appearance.