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The New Orleans Pelicans have endured a challenging start to the 2025–26 season, but one thing has stood out amid the early adversity: their rookies are refusing to flinch. Veteran forward Herb Jones said the competitive spirit of the team’s young players — particularly lottery picks Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen — has injected much-needed energy into the locker room. “Their competitive nature,” Jones told RG.org. “There’s never a day that goes by that we don’t compete. Whenever we do, those guys show up and don’t back down from anything. You gotta love that.” DALLAS, TEXAS – NOVEMBER 05: Herbert Jones #2 of the New Orleans Pelicans dunks against the Dallas Mavericks during the first half at American Airlines Center on November 05, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) That attitude has been reflected in the rookies’ play. Both Fears and Queen have quickly found their footing in head coach Willie Green’s rotation, helping the Pelicans remain competitive while dealing with injuries to key players like Zion Williamson, Jordan Poole and Yves Missi. Fears, the No. 7 overall pick out of Oklahoma, has provided consistent scoring and composure beyond his years. The 19-year-old guard has averaged 13.8 points, 3.2 assists and 2.9 rebounds through his first nine games. He has scored in double figures in eight of those contests, including a 21-point outing that showcased his ability to create off the dribble and manage the offense under NBA pressure. Read more: Rockets’ Kevin Durant Gives Massive Praise to Mavericks Rookie Cooper Flagg Fears’ poise has drawn praise from coaches, who have trusted him with extended minutes as a secondary playmaker. His balance of patience and aggression has made him a key contributor in an offense still finding its rhythm. Queen, meanwhile, has emerged as a multi-dimensional forward capable of impacting the game in several ways. The 6-foot-9, 250-pound former Maryland standout, acquired after the Pelicans traded up on draft night, has averaged 8.9 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.0 assists through nine games. Over his last two outings, he has increased those numbers to 12.0 points, 6.0 rebounds and 5.0 assists. Queen’s performance against the San Antonio Spurs — 13 points, a career-high eight assists and five rebounds — highlighted his blend of power and playmaking. His effort even caught the attention of Spurs legend Tim Duncan, who texted Pelicans broadcaster Antonio Daniels during the game to say, “I really like that Queen guy.” Earlier this season, Queen made NBA history by recording 12 points, seven rebounds, four assists and three steals in a single quarter against Charlotte, becoming the first player to post such a stat line in any quarter since play-by-play data began in 1996–97. Teammates and coaches have praised Queen’s willingness to learn and his ability to adjust quickly. He’s credited veterans Kevon Looney and DeAndre Jordan for helping him refine his approach to the pro game, and his consistent improvement has made him a fixture in the Pelicans’ frontcourt rotation. Read more: Mavericks Expected to Consider Cutting Ties with $50 Million All-Star by Deadline Jones, who signed a three-year, $68 million extension this summer, has taken on a vocal leadership role for a team balancing youth and experience. The 27-year-old has emphasized the importance of maintaining competitiveness and communication, values he sees reflected in the rookies’ approach. “They show up and go at it,” Jones said. “It’s what makes this group fun to be around — we all push each other to get better.” As New Orleans continues to work through its uneven start, Fears and Queen have emerged as bright spots for the franchise’s long-term outlook. Their early production, combined with the guidance of Jones and the team’s veterans, has given the Pelicans reason to believe that better days are ahead. For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.
