The New Orleans Pelicans are showing strong interest in Maryland freshman Derik Queen, according to a source who spoke to Jeff Goodman of The Field of 68. With the seventh overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, the team is considering Queen as a key prospect.
Queen has made a notable impact this season, averaging 16.5 points and 9 rebounds per game while playing 30.4 minutes for the Terrapins. His field goal percentage stands at 52.6%, with a free throw rate of 76.6%. Defensively, he averages 1.1 blocks and 2.1 personal fouls per contest.
The Pelicans, under new management, have been actively scouting big men who bring both skill and versatility. Queen fits this profile with his offensive polish and ability to contribute as a playmaker from the center position.
The 2025 draft class includes top prospects such as Cooper Flagg, widely expected to be the No. 1 pick, and other lottery candidates like Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey, and VJ Edgecombe. Despite strong competition, Queen’s performance in the Big Ten and during the conference tournament has raised his stock.
New Orleans finished the 2024-25 season with a 21-61 record, placing them near the bottom of the Western Conference standings. The team is focused on rebuilding and sees this draft as an opportunity to add foundational talent.
The Pelicans’ current roster lacks a dominant big man, which makes Queen’s combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ particularly attractive. His ability to score efficiently and rebound aligns with the team’s needs moving forward.
The 2025 NBA Draft lottery has set the draft order, with Dallas winning the top pick for the first time in franchise history. New Orleans holds the seventh selection, positioned to make a strategic choice in this deep and talented draft.
