The New Orleans Pelicans were aggressive in their pursuit of former Maryland center Derik Queen. In the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft, the Pelicans moved up

The Hawks received the rights to the 23rd overall pick, Asa Newell, and an unprotected 2026 first-round pick (best from New Orleans or Milwaukee) from the Pelicans for Queen.

The Pelicans acquired Queen in a draft-night deal with the Atlanta Hawks, who received No. 23 pick Asa Newell and an unprotected 2026 first-rounder in return. Derik Queen’s draft night schedule: 1. Get drafted 2. Update @LinkedIn 😂 pic.twitter.com/I2nag3eck8