DALLAS (WVUE) - When the Pelicans (2-13) travel to Dallas, rookie center Derik Queen will look to continue to build off a career-high 30-point game against the Mavericks.
In what has been another disappointing start this season for the Pelicans, rookies Jeremiah Fears and Queen have been bright spots. Both players have been Top 10 Rookie of the Year candidates since the season began.
READ MORE NBA ranks Pelicans rookies Jeremiah Fears, Derik Queen at No. 6,7 on this week’s Ladder
Fears has been steady this season after being thrust into a starting role due to injuries to vet guards Dejounte Murray and Jordan Poole. Lately, a trend of progression has forced an expanded role for Queen. That progression was on full display Wednesday night in a hard-fought 125-118 loss at home against the Nuggets.
Three-time NBA MVP and seven-time All-Star Nikola Jokic had positive things to say about Queen, whom he was matched up against all night.
“He’s good. He has some moves, he’s definitely pretty crafty,” Jokić said. “He’s unorthodox, great touch around the rim, great feel for the game. It’s good to see somebody different.”
Queen finished his night with 30 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, two steals, and 2 blocks while shooting 12-for-18 from the floor. By comparison, Jokic went for 28 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists while shooting 10-for-18 from the floor.
Like the Pelicans, the 4-12 Mavs are struggling, dealing with injuries, and hoping for salvation from rookie play. No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg missed his first career game due to injury this week but is likely to return Friday night (Nov. 21) to face the Pelicans.
While Queen’s play is improving, the return of Zion Williamson helped open things up for him and the rest of the offense, finishing with 14 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block.
As Pelicans interim head coach James Borrego continues to make adjustments, Queen and the squad are hoping to capitalize against a team they previously defeated.
The Pelicans face the Mavs on the road Friday, live on the Gulf Coast Sports and Entertainment Network. Coverage begins at 7 p.m.
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