Derik Queen trades Atlanta Hawks for New Orleans Pelicans after NBA Draft

In the United States, Derik Queen, a Baltimore native, was selected 13th overall in the NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks on June 26, 2025. Despite being drafted by the Hawks, a proposed trade will result in Queen joining the New Orleans Pelicans. Queen played college basketball at the University of Maryland, where he made a significant impact during his freshman season, averaging 16.5 points and 9.0 rebounds per game. His impressive performance included 15 double-doubles and earned him honors such as first-team All-Big Ten selection and Big Ten Freshman of the Year. As part of a separate trade, the Pelicans also acquired Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey from the Washington Wizards in exchange for CJ McCollum, Kelly Olynyk, and a future second-round pick. This trade is seen as a move to bring younger talent to the Pelicans, with Poole having led the Wizards in scoring last season. Meanwhile, McCollum, who averaged 21.1 points per game for the Pelicans in the previous season, has an expiring contract, which makes him a valuable asset for Washington. The Pelicans are working to reshape their roster by securing key players who can contribute to their goals for the upcoming season. The addition of Queen, along with Poole and Bey, adds a fresh dynamic to the team. Queen's connection to Baltimore and his background may also generate local interest and support for the Pelicans as they navigate the changes ahead. The 2025 NBA Draft marked a pivotal moment for teams looking to enhance their rosters, and for Queen, it opens a new chapter in his professional basketball career. His journey, involving transfers between high schools and a successful college season, has laid the groundwork for his aspirations in the NBA.