New Orleans Pelicans Acquire Derik Queen with 2025 NBA 13th Pick

Derik Queen, a standout center from the University of Maryland and the 2024-25 Big Ten Freshman of the Year, was selected 13th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Pelicans, who traded up from the 23rd pick by sending Asa Newell and an unprotected 2026 first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks. Queen impressed during his freshman season with averages of 16.5 points and 9.0 rebounds per game, earning first-team All-Big Ten honors and garnering comparisons to versatile players like Alperen Sengun and Julius Randle due to his advanced offensive skills and playmaking ability. While NBA analysts have praised Queen's potential and skill set, concerns remain about his conditioning and defense, and the Pelicans face possible lineup spacing challenges given their existing roster composition. The trade has been viewed as a high-risk move by the Pelicans’ front office, led by Joe Dumars and Troy Weaver, because of the valuable future draft pick involved and the uncertainties around the team's overall performance and health in the upcoming season. Queen expressed enthusiasm about joining the Pelicans and contributing to the team, signaling a promising start to his professional career. This acquisition underscores the Pelicans’ commitment to rebuilding and investing in young talent for future success.