Derrick Queen, the No. 13 overall pick by the New Orleans Pelicans, has undergone surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left wrist, according to a team announcement. The Pelicans plan to reassess his condition in 12 weeks. Given this timeline, Queen was rechecked during training camp and is nearing the start of his NBA season. This suggests he may miss much of his initial training camps and might only be able to join the season opener if his recovery goes well.
Queen injured his wrist during a Pelicans Summer League game against the Trail Blazers on July 15. Jeff Stotts from Food Stall Clothing noted that this surgery is the same type Jalen Williams of the Thunder had after their season. The ligament, crucial for wrist stability, connects parts of the wrist and when torn, it causes significant pain. Williams had to endure over 20 painkiller injections during the playoffs to manage the injury.
During the NBA Summer League, Queen displayed strong offensive skills, averaging 14 points and 10.7 rebounds, achieving three double-doubles. However, he also recorded 17 turnovers in three games and showed a passive approach with limited physicality, especially on defense. This defensive weakness and lack of intensity may restrict his playing time once he returns. Pelicans coach Willie Green faces challenges integrating Queen into the frontcourt rotation alongside players like Zion Williamson, Efe Misey, and Kevon Rooney.
Health is a key factor for the Pelicans’ performance this season as they approach training camp with Queen, Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones, and Dejaune Murray, though Murray will miss much of the season due to a torn Achilles. The Pelicans sacrificed a 23rd pick this season and an unprotected first-round pick in 2026 to move up to 13th and select Queen. If the Pelicans fail to make the playoffs, which is a clear possibility in the competitive Western Conference without maintaining good health, that 2026 pick could be a high draft pick—making this past offseason trade one of the most criticized moves.
This situation places significant pressure on the Pelicans’ front office, including GM Joe Dumars and Queen himself, to prove the trade worthwhile. Queen’s limited participation in training camp due to injury is not an ideal start for the promising rookie.
Fan Take: This injury to Derrick Queen is a pivotal storyline for the Pelicans and basketball fans alike. It highlights the fine balance between potential and risk in the draft and could significantly affect the trajectory of both Queen’s career and the Pelicans’ success in a fiercely competitive Western Conference.
