The New Orleans Pelicans traded their 2026 first-round pick and the draft rights to Asa Newell to the Atlanta Hawks on draft night in exchange for Derik Queen. The move sparked league-wide backlash. Many questioned whether the rookie was worth such a bold decision.

After the Pelicans’ disappointing 0-6 start to the season, Derik Queen’s draft again got attention. However, the rookie’s performances have begun to shift the narrative in his favor.

During the Pelicans’ game against the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday, radio broadcaster Antonio Daniels shared that Spurs legend Tim Duncan messaged him to heap high praise on Queen.

“I’m sitting here with my phone in my hand, and Tim Duncan just sent me a text about Derik Queen. He said, ‘Man, I really like that Queen guy.’ Yes, me too, bro. I ag

See Full Page