One of the New Orleans Pelicans’ lottery picks has been under a lot of heat, but former NBA player Kendrick Perkins has spoken out for him.
It was an offseason of massive changes for the New Orleans Pelicans, especially in their front office as former NBA Vice President Joe Dumars moved to the franchise as their President of Basketball Operations.
He is known to make massive decisions and is also a former Executive of the Year with the Detroit Pistons, but one of his first big moves with the Pelicans came under a lot of scrutiny.
The team decided to trade next year’s first-round pick for the 13th pick in the 2025 NBA draft: Derik Queen.
His Summer League campaign was cut short due to an injury and this led to many criticizing the franchise.
However, Kendrick Perkins has come to the defense of the former Maryland player.
Perkins had previously also heaped praise on Queen’s ability on the court. Although he will be out for at least three months, the former NBA player believes the 13th pick will be immense for the Pels in his rookie season.
Queen had some big moments in college and although the Pels’ decision to draft him was a risky one, Perkins believes he has a limitless ceiling.
“Derik Queen is going to be special. I would have moved up to get Derik Queen. He is a Baby Jokic/baby Sengun. The man has the complete package. He is going to be special,” said Perkins.
Queen had a double-double in all three of his Summer League appearances. But there were clearly things he could improve on, most importantly his decision-making.
He added: “If things don’t pan out with Zion Williamson and after this season if the Pelicans decide to part ways with Zion, I’m telling you right now, Derik Queen when he comes back from the wrist injury, he is going to be a problem.
“He is arguably the most skilled player in this draft. He doesn’t have a ceiling, he is Lil Wayne.”
Queen had impressive numbers for Maryland in the NCAA tournament, averaging 18.7 points and 8.7 rebounds.
While there is no fixed date for his return, the Pels could use a player like him as he could contribute across the board for them.
The Pels do not have a lot of center options and Queen might be a player they can use in that position.
They currently have Yves Missi and Kevon Looney, but Queen could add a lot more dynamism playing as the center.
His defensive game needs a little more improvement, but Queen is still young and will progress as he gains more experience.
He certainly has confidence and is a proven performer, but the Pelicans will be hoping those qualities transition into the NBA.
