🏀🍦 “New Orleans Orders a Large DQ: Derik Queen Heads South”

“New Orleans Orders a Large DQ: Derik Queen Heads South”

The Pelicans used the 13th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft to snag Maryland big man Derik Queen, a move that signals a desire to add offensive versatility and high-IQ playmaking to their frontcourt. While this pick may not come with national buzz, folks down here in New Orleans might want to pay attention—this young man can hoop.

Queen was a one-and-done standout at Maryland, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year and First-Team All-Big Ten honors. But what really sets him apart isn’t the stats—it’s the style.

He’s not a rim-runner or lob threat, and he won’t wow you with above-the-rim highlights. But put him on the block, and it’s poetry in motion. His post footwork is advanced for a 19-year-old, and he’s got touch, patience, and vision that remind some folks of a young Marc Gasol—or dare I say, shades of Jokic Lite.

Strengths Pels Fans Should Love:

• Crafty low-post scoring with spin moves, pivots, and soft finishes.

• Excellent passing feel—he can operate as a hub in half-court sets.

• Face-up skills and a developing jumper that stretches out to midrange.

That said, he’s not a finished product. Defensively, he’ll need time. His foot speed and vertical pop are below average for NBA bigs, and he’s not going to be a shot-blocking anchor right away. But this isn’t a gamble on raw tools—this is a calculated play on feel, fundamentals, and offensive IQ.

With Zion, BI, and CJ all needing space and touches, Queen gives the Pels a guy who doesn’t need plays drawn up for him—but can still make plays for others when given the ball.

Final Thought:

In a league full of athletes, the Pelicans just took a basketball player. Don’t be surprised if Derik Queen becomes one of the smartest, most reliable contributors from this draft class a few years down the line.

Welcome to New Orleans, DQ. Let’s cook.