The New Orleans Pelicans find themselves at a crossroads in a season marked by upheaval and challenge. As the team works through injuries and roster changes, interim head coach James Borrego appears committed to building around the unique skill set of rookie Derik Queen, whose style draws strong parallels to reigning MVP Nikola Jokic. Queen’s evolving role as the focal point of the offense gives fans optimism amid an otherwise difficult campaign.
In what has been a turbulent stretch, Borrego’s strategy centers on unleashing Queen’s versatility on both ends of the floor. Queen is starting to take charge as the primary initiator, carrying the ball out of defensive rebounds and orchestrating plays in half-court sets. His ability to manage the offense in ways similar to Jokic provides a glimpse into the direction the Pelicans intend to head heading into the final games of the season.
How Queen Mirrors Jokic’s Playmaking Excellence
Borrego highlighted Queen’s natural instincts and passing ability, noting that while the rookie still has room to grow, the foundation for a Jokic-like role is already present.
“Queen has that naturally; he had that ability coming into the NBA,”
Borrego told ClutchPoints.
“He has the ability to make plays, and really his strength is making others better. His ability to pass, see the floor, and he does it in the full court. I think you referenced Jokic. Well, we’ve got a ways to go, but getting that in the full court is a problem.”
Continuing with the comparison, Borrego emphasized that Queen’s court vision extends beyond half-court offense.
“Jokic can bring it up off a rebound, same thing with Queen,”
he said.
“He has the vision to kick the ball ahead and find the open player. He does it in the half-court as well. I can probably move him around a little bit more in the half-court, too, to disguise his playmaking ability.”
This dual-threat capability complicates defensive assignments and creates valuable mismatches late in games.
Facilitating Offense and Building Team Chemistry
Queen’s role goes beyond individual statistics; his playstyle fosters a culture of unselfishness throughout the Pelicans squad. By initiating offense from strategic areas like the high post or elbow, Queen forces opposing defenses to rotate, opening lanes for teammates to exploit. Borrego praised the ripple effect of this mindset on the entire roster:
“It’s just a spirit that trickles throughout our team when you have guys that are willing to share the ball, move the ball.”
He further spotlighted young guard Devonte’ Fears by saying,
“Fears is growing in that area with his decision-making. His ability to get downhill in transition in the half court, touch the paint, find kickouts, and spray it.”
Borrego also included Trey Murphy III among the young core shaping the team’s identity:
“We have two young guys, and I’ll put Peavy in there as well. Peavy is another young guy who gets it. He is unselfish. He wants to get downhill and make plays for others.”
Together, these players are building a cohesive group focused on making each other better.
Statistical Milestones Reinforce Queen’s Unique Impact
At just 21 years old, Queen’s numbers are already impressive and in many ways historic for a rookie center. Through the All-Star break, he averaged 12.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 4.3 assists on 48.4% shooting. His playmaking was on full display in a landmark game against the San Antonio Spurs, where he recorded a 33-point triple-double with 10 rebounds and 10 assists — marking the first triple-double of that scoring magnitude by a rookie center in NBA history.
Queen also made history by reaching 200 career assists faster than any center in the last 50 years, even outpacing Jokic in this regard. Such achievements underscore why the comparisons are shifting from hopeful projections to grounded expectations within the Pelicans organization.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Pelicans’ Offensive Identity
While it is clear Queen is not yet at Jokic’s level — and may never replicate it entirely — the archetype they share is tangible and highly valuable. New Orleans has endured a season of disruptions, but the emergence of Queen and the team’s young, unselfish nucleus offers a blueprint for sustainable success. Borrego’s confidence in giving Queen the offensive keys down the stretch reflects the organization’s belief in his potential to lead.
With his instincts already apparent and teammates responding positively, the remaining games of Queen’s rookie season serve as a vital opportunity. If the Pelicans continue to entrust Queen with playmaking responsibilities in transition and half-court sets, it will clarify how far the Derik Queen Jokic comparison can translate into tangible growth, both for the player and the franchise’s evolving identity.
More James Borrego comments on the Derik Queen – Nikola Jokic comps, plus Karlo Matkovic’s role moving forward:#Pelicans pic.twitter.com/Tuyg7D1f21
— Dodson (@DoingItDodson) February 24, 2026
