Pelicans' Dumars Sparks Debate With Aggressive 2025 NBA Draft Moves

Joe Dumars, the New Orleans Pelicans' executive vice president of basketball operations, has made bold moves in the 2025 NBA Draft and offseason to reshape the team's roster. Notably, the Pelicans traded their No. 23 overall pick and an unprotected 2026 first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks to move up to No. 13 and select Maryland forward Derik Queen, a move that sparked significant criticism from analysts who questioned the cost of the trade. Dumars defended the decision by emphasizing that Queen was identified as a foundational piece for the team and compared him to talented players like Alperen Sengun and Julius Randle. Alongside this trade, Dumars also acquired veterans Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey and used the No. 7 pick to draft Oklahoma guard Jeremiah Fears, signaling an aggressive roster overhaul while retaining coach Willie Green and Zion Williamson. Despite the backlash over some draft decisions, Dumars insists these moves are part of defining the team's identity and future. Additionally, Dumars addressed concerns raised by player Dejounte Murray about organizational support during his injury recovery, promising improvements in player care and communication.