CJ McCollum's second act: Leading Zion Williamson and the young New Orleans Pelicans

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McCollum says his leadership style came from his parents. His mom emphasized the importance of communication and holding others accountable. His dad taught him that if you want to get respect from people, you have to give it back.

Sometimes, he learned, that meant having to be direct -- and blunt.

"CJ backed me up on that and then he was the person that was the a--hole," Lillard says. "He'll say what needs to be said. I'm wearing different hats with everybody on this team. CJ was just like, 'Do y'all wanna win? You B.S.-ing. You need to work on your game.' I think he'll bring that type of presence."

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ON A RECENT four-game, seven-day West Coast road trip, the Pelicans had multiple team dinners, including one at an Italian spot close to their hotel in Los Angeles and a steakhouse in Sacramento. But it wasn't the location that mattered; it was the seating arrangement.

At both, McCollum was seated next to Zion Williamson, who had been away from the team when McCollum arrived in New Orleans while he recovered from a season-long foot injury. The two talked for hours, joking, bonding with one another, a duo the team hopes can be foundational for years to come.

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