New Orleans Pelicans surge with a four-game winning streak, but Zion Williamson’s uncertain role still clouds the team’s future. Is James Borrego making a strong case to become the permanent head coach, or does Zion’s unresolved situation trump any coaching decisions? Jake Madison spotlights Borrego’s immediate impact, including improved offensive structure, defensive effort, and bold coaching moves. The episode questions whether the Pelicans should build around Zion Williamson, develop Derik Queen and Trey Murphy, or finally commit to a clear direction. With wins against struggling teams like the Indiana Pacers and Chicago Bulls, the hype remains tempered—are these victories enough to pivot toward a playoff push, or is New Orleans headed for another crossroads? Don’t miss the latest analysis of the Pelicans’ identity crisis, future roster moves, and what truly determines success in the Big Easy. Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! DoorDash From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash. Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door. DoorDash. In your bag all season long. PrizePicks Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup. Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

New Orleans Pelicans shock the Houston Rockets with a dramatic 25-point comeback, sparking questions about Zion Williamson’s future role on the team. Is this proof the Pelicans have finally turned the page? Jake Madison unpacks how grit, resilience, and sharp coaching led New Orleans to a thrilling 133-128 overtime win against a legitimate title contender. Key storylines include Herb Jones locking down Kevin Durant and igniting the Pelicans' defense, Saddiq Bey’s emergence as the unexpected closer, and James Borrego’s bold decision to bench Zion in crunch time. The discussion weighs the shifting team culture, the impact of key role players like Trey Murphy and Derik Queen, and what Borrego’s fresh approach means for the franchise’s direction. Can the Pelicans ride this new energy to a playoff push—or has a new era begun in New Orleans basketball? Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

New Orleans Pelicans ignite under interim coach James Borrego, flashing “violence and speed” on the court but still searching for a true offensive identity. Can this energetic shift propel them out of mediocrity, or does the roster need a bigger overhaul to match contenders like the Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets? Jake Madison breaks down how Zion Williamson, Derik Queen, Jeremiah Fears, and Trey Murphy are adapting to Borrego’s system, analyzing surges in points in the paint, rim frequency, and transition play. Key topics include the challenges of building around a motion-based offense, the team’s struggles and improvement on defense, and whether the Pelicans should model themselves after the Nuggets’ or Rockets’ blueprints. Upcoming tests against the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and Cleveland Cavaliers could define the Pelicans’ trajectory. Will New Orleans cement a lasting identity or keep tinkering as the season winds down? Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Derik Queen’s versatility is transforming the New Orleans Pelicans’ offense, unlocking new dimensions in Trey Murphy III’s game and raising a season-defining question: Can Queen also maximize Zion Williamson’s impact? Jake Madison spotlights Queen’s dynamic passing, instant chemistry with Murphy, and how these developments signal a shift in the Pelicans’ long-term building blocks. Key discussions cover Zion Williamson’s off-ball potential, the challenges of adapting his role alongside Queen, and parallels to Nikola Jokic’s partnership with Aaron Gordon on the Denver Nuggets. The episode also explores defensive concerns for a Queen-Zion frontcourt and why the next roster moves will be critical for New Orleans’ future. Is it time for the Pelicans to rethink their core and prioritize shooting and defense around their rookies? Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

New Orleans Pelicans face a turning point as trade season heats up—could tearing down the roster jeopardize the growth of rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen? Should Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy, and Herb Jones stay to support the team's future, or will pressure mount for a fire sale ahead of the NBA Draft? Jake Madison breaks down the impact of keeping veteran talent and why development around core prospects must remain a top priority. Hot topics include rumored trade interest in Trey Murphy and Herb Jones, the realistic market for Jose Alvarado, and the latest buzz around Zion Williamson’s long-term value. With insights on salary cap strategy, team culture, and the importance of avoiding a hasty rebuild, this episode explores what it will take for the Pelicans to return to winning basketball and build a competitive core for next season. Is patience the key, or should New Orleans shake up the roster now? Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

New Orleans Pelicans shine as Jeremiah Fears dominates his Chicago homecoming, powering the team to a 114-104 victory over the Bulls. Did the rookie just prove he’s ready to be a franchise cornerstone? With 20 points—including a clutch 10 in the fourth quarter—and defensive grit, Fears sparks questions about the team’s future ceiling. Jake Madison spotlights Zion Williamson’s unique bench role, Karlo Matkovic's surprising impact, and James Borrego’s evolving game management strategy. The analysis highlights improvements in pace, defensive rebounding, and the team’s developing on-court identity amid injuries and roster changes. Trade season heats up, leaving fans to wonder: will the Pelicans shake things up or build around their promising rookie core? Don’t miss insights on New Orleans’ competitive edge and what these performances mean for next season. Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

New Orleans Pelicans break their seven-game losing streak with a statement 143-120 win over the Portland Trail Blazers, powered by Jordan Poole’s lively return and a record-setting 88 points in the paint. Bryce McGowans shines with a career night against his former squad, while Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears continue to validate the front office’s strong talent evaluation. The episode breaks down how the Pelicans’ young core and improved floor spacing spark optimism amid lingering injuries and trade rumors. With a fast-paced matchup against the struggling Chicago Bulls on deck, can New Orleans capitalize on newfound momentum and push toward playoff contention?

Are the New Orleans Pelicans primed to follow the Denver Nuggets’ championship model, building around Derik Queen’s versatile playmaking? This episode spotlights Queen’s impact as a central hub for the Pelicans’ offense and compares his development to Nikola Jokic’s, exploring how Trey Murphy, Herb Jones, and Jeremiah Fears fit into a winning roster. Timely injury news on Zion Williamson and Jordan Poole adds intrigue ahead of a critical game versus the Portland Trail Blazers, while defensive improvements and lineup strategy become key discussion points. Can New Orleans seize momentum and establish a pathway to long-term NBA success?

Derik Queen gives New Orleans Pelicans fans a reason to smile, delivering dominant performances—including a recent 33-point triple-double—that position him as the franchise’s future centerpiece. With Zion Williamson’s injuries casting uncertainty, the focus shifts to whether the Pelicans should reshape their roster around Queen and his dynamic partnership with Trey Murphy. The discussion covers building effective lineups, Jeremiah Fears’ fit at point guard, optimal guard rotations as Jordan Poole nears his return, and how Bryce McGowans is emerging as a valuable bench piece. Hot topics also include potential trades involving Trey Murphy or Dejounte Murray, and whether the Pelicans should move past the Zion era altogether. This analysis breaks down why committing to Derik Queen could be the key to reigniting New Orleans’ playoff ambitions.

Derik Queen’s sensational triple-double energizes the New Orleans Pelicans, sparking hope for a brighter future despite a hard-fought 135-132 loss to the San Antonio Spurs. Queen delivered 33 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, while Trey Murphy and Herb Jones provided vital offense and defensive tenacity for a starting lineup that finished strong even as bench struggles persisted. With Zion Williamson, Jordan Poole, and Dejounte Murray sidelined, the discussion centers on the team’s improving offensive flow under James Borrego, the urgent need for defensive progress in upcoming practices, and how returning stars could propel New Orleans into the Play-In Tournament. Can the Pelicans capitalize on Queen’s emergence and turn potential into victories as the season heats up?

New Orleans Pelicans sink lower with a blowout loss to the Brooklyn Nets—can James Borrego spark a turnaround before trade talks heat up? With standout performances from Michael Porter Jr. and a triple-double for Nicolas Claxton highlighting defensive woes, the Pelicans’ patchwork lineup struggles to find rhythm amidst injury setbacks and missing stars like Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray.

In this episode, you'll get a deep dive into the recent struggles and bright spots for the New Orleans Pelicans as they navigate tough losses, issues closing out games, and the development of their young stars. The conversation explores why the team has faltered in clutch moments, highlights impressive rookie performances like Jeremiah Fears' rise in the NBA rookie ladder, and assesses improvements under new coaching while pointing out both strategic and lineup challenges. Listeners will also hear a preview of the upcoming matchup against the Brooklyn Nets, discussing key players to watch and what the Pelicans need to do to finally secure another win and boost team morale.

Zion Williamson’s uncertain future puts the New Orleans Pelicans at a crossroads—can his non-guaranteed contract help the team regain flexibility, or are they stuck with an oft-injured star? Trade rumors swirl as discussions center on realistic return packages, possible fits with the Sacramento Kings, and the potential pitfalls of swapping for another injury-prone player like LaMelo Ball. The spotlight is on how front office strategy and salary structure could shape the Pelicans’ path forward.

Zion Williamson’s latest extended injury sends shockwaves through New Orleans, fueling debate on whether the Pelicans should finally end the Zion era. Seven years of uncertainty and persistent absences have left fans and the franchise questioning what’s next for their future—and whether moving forward without their once-celebrated star is inevitable.

Trade winds intensify in New Orleans as the Pelicans weigh the futures of Trey Murphy, Herb Jones, and Zion Williamson ahead of a crucial window. With contending teams likely to call, the debate rages: does Trey Murphy’s versatile scoring and team-friendly contract make him untouchable, and should Herb Jones’ defensive value prompt the front office to listen to potential offers? Meanwhile, Zion Williamson’s fluctuating form and limited back-to-back play raise questions about his timing as a trade asset.

This episode takes a deep dive into the impressive progress of the New Orleans Pelicans’ rookie trio—Derik Queen, Jeremiah Fears, and Micah Peavy—highlighting how each is outperforming expectations and climbing the NBA’s rookie ladder. Enjoy an in-depth look at their strengths, areas for growth, and why their development is a major positive for fans. The episode also previews two big upcoming games against the Warriors and Lakers, offering key updates, matchup analysis, and strategic insights on what New Orleans needs to do to secure crucial wins. Packed with rookie breakdowns and game previews, this one's a must-listen for Pelicans fans!

Dive into a detailed recap of the Pelicans' tough overtime loss to the Grizzlies, including Zach Edey’s huge impact and clutch moments like Zion Williamson's contested layup. Find out why New Orleans’ rookies are seeing less playing time, how veteran energy is changing the lineup, and get an honest look at what Pelicans fans can still be thankful for—even in a challenging season. With analysis of on-court adjustments, future outlook, and trade possibilities, this episode offers hope and insight for fans ready to look past the record and toward brighter days ahead.

The New Orleans Pelicans are developing a fresh identity under interim head coach James Borrego, with changes coming fast after just two practices. This episode unpacks the team’s shift to a faster pace, improved rebounding, and a bigger focus on steals, giving fans insight into how these adjustments are transforming their play. Injury updates for Jordan Poole and Karlo Matkovic are discussed, along with analysis on using Zion Williamson and Derik Queen as offensive hubs. Get a complete preview of what to expect in the Pelicans' upcoming clash against the Memphis Grizzlies, including key matchups to watch and strategic adjustments that could make the difference.

The New Orleans Pelicans finally snapped their nine-game losing streak with a 143-130 win over the Chicago Bulls! This episode breaks down how New Orleans pulled off the victory, the impact of young players like Yves Missi and Micah Peavy, and what’s changing under James Borrego. Plus, get the latest injury updates on Jordan Poole and Herb Jones, and what they mean for the team moving forward.