The New Orleans Pelicans are making headlines again, and not just for the usual reasons. With a season that’s been more about building for the future than racking up wins, Saturday night brings a fresh twist: veteran center DeAndre Jordan is set to start against the Philadelphia 76ers. The move comes after a lengthy spell on the bench—Jordan hasn’t suited up in a game since October 29, 2025. Now, he’s stepping into the starting lineup, taking over for Bryce McGowens. For Pelicans fans, it’s a development that signals both a nod to experience and a continued commitment to nurturing young talent.
Jordan’s return to the hardwood is notable for several reasons. Over his two appearances this season (one start), the big man has averaged 4.5 points and 5.0 rebounds in just 11.5 minutes per contest. While those numbers may not leap off the stat sheet, his presence brings a steadying influence to a team that has leaned heavily on its young core. For a franchise sitting 14th in the Western Conference at 15-42, every bit of veteran leadership matters, especially as the season shifts into a developmental phase.
But let’s not kid ourselves—the real story in New Orleans right now is the emergence of their rookie duo: Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen. Even as the Pelicans fell to the Milwaukee Bucks 139-118 on February 21, 2026, the performance of these two youngsters gave fans a reason to cheer. With the team’s playoff hopes all but dashed, the focus has shifted to growth, chemistry, and glimpses of what could be a dynamic future.
Jeremiah Fears, selected seventh overall in the 2025 NBA Draft, continues to impress with his poise and versatility. Coming off the bench against Milwaukee, Fears poured in 16 points, collected four rebounds, handed out five assists, and nabbed two steals. He shot an efficient 7-of-13 from the field, showing a knack for getting to the rim even if his three-point shot wasn’t falling (0-for-3 from deep). In just 29 minutes, Fears demonstrated why he’s considered a serious contender for an All-Rookie team spot. His season averages—13.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.3 steals per game—underscore his ability to contribute across the board.
“Fears is taking advantage of his opportunities in a major way,” noted Jed Katz, a student journalist and basketball analyst. That sentiment is echoed by Pelicans fans, who see Fears not only as a spark off the bench but as a potential cornerstone for the franchise’s next chapter.
Meanwhile, Derik Queen, the 13th overall pick in 2025, has been equally impressive in a starting role. Against the Bucks, Queen filled up the stat sheet with 18 points, nine rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocks in 28 minutes. He shot a remarkable 7-of-10 from the floor, displaying the all-around skill set that made him a coveted prospect out of Maryland. Queen’s season averages—12.3 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, along with shooting splits of 50% from the field, 28% from three, and 77% from the line—reflect his versatility and growth as a two-way player.
Some Pelicans supporters initially fretted over the team’s decision to trade its unprotected 2026 first-round pick to land Queen at 13th overall. However, his consistent production and evident upside are beginning to ease those concerns. “Queen is still showing that he can become a star in this league, which at least improves the sentiment,” Katz observed. His ability to contribute in multiple facets—scoring, rebounding, distributing, and defending—has made him a key figure in New Orleans’ rotation.
What makes the rise of Fears and Queen even more compelling is the historical context. Only seven players in Pelicans history have earned All-Rookie honors, with four making the first team (Zion Williamson, Anthony Davis, Darren Collison, and Chris Paul) and three landing on the second team (Yves Missi, Herb Jones, and Marcus Thornton). If both Fears and Queen continue their strong play, they could become the first rookie duo in franchise history to receive such recognition—a milestone that would speak volumes about the team’s scouting and development efforts.
Of course, the Pelicans’ current record—15-42, good for 14th in the Western Conference—means that wins have been hard to come by. Their most recent outing, a 139-118 defeat at the hands of the Bucks, was another reminder of the challenges facing a young, rebuilding roster. Yet, for head coach and front office alike, the priority is clear: cultivate talent, foster growth, and set the stage for a brighter tomorrow.
That’s where DeAndre Jordan’s return to the starting lineup comes into sharper focus. While he may not be the focal point of the offense, his experience and professionalism provide a valuable model for the Pelicans’ rookies. Jordan’s career, defined by rebounding prowess and defensive acumen, offers a template for young big men like Queen to emulate. And as the team navigates the grind of the NBA season, having a seasoned veteran to anchor the frontcourt—even if just for spot starts—can pay dividends both on and off the court.
The decision to start Jordan over Bryce McGowens also hints at a willingness to experiment and adjust as the season progresses. McGowens, who has filled in admirably, now returns to a reserve role, where he can continue to develop without the pressure of nightly starts. For the coaching staff, it’s a balancing act: maximize development for the young guns while maintaining a competitive edge and a positive locker room culture.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans’ immediate schedule doesn’t get any easier, but that’s hardly the point. With Fears and Queen leading the charge, and veterans like Jordan lending a steady hand, New Orleans is laying the groundwork for sustained success. The front office’s decision to invest in youth—despite the absence of a 2026 first-round pick—appears increasingly justified as the rookies continue to deliver on their promise.
As the Pelicans prepare to face the 76ers, all eyes will be on the blend of youth and experience taking the floor. The team may not be racking up wins just yet, but the foundation is being set for a new era in New Orleans basketball—one defined by resilience, growth, and the tantalizing potential of its rising stars. The action is ongoing, and the story of this season is far from over.