Derik Queen Draws Attention On and Off the Court as Pelicans Rookie Responds to Falcons’ Jab

Derik Queen’s early NBA season has taken a notable turn over the past several weeks, with the New Orleans Pelicans rookie suddenly emerging as one of the brighter spots in an otherwise difficult stretch for the team. His production has risen sharply, and his confidence has followed, earning attention well beyond the basketball court. That spotlight widened over the weekend when another Atlanta franchise—this time the NFL’s Falcons—took playful aim at the 20-year-old center.

The Falcons defeated the New Orleans Saints 24–10 on Sunday, snapping a five-game losing streak at Caesars Superdome. Shortly after the win, the team’s official X account posted a message jokingly referencing Queen, even though he plays for the city’s NBA team. The lighthearted jab quickly gathered traction, especially with Queen joining in on the exchange.

Queen responded with a date and time—January 7, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. CT—hinting at the Pelicans’ next meeting with the Atlanta Hawks. The message served as both a wink and a warning, playfully signaling that the rookie had filed the moment away for future use. For Pelicans fans searching for reasons for optimism, the interaction was another sign of Queen’s growing presence and competitive spirit.

His reply immediately drew reactions across social media, where fans celebrated the rookie’s swagger and embraced the possibility of a future marquee showing. Even amid the Pelicans’ ongoing struggles, Queen has become a focal point of excitement for a fan base eager for hope.

1. Queen’s Play Spurs Leaguewide Attention

Derik Queen has begun to settle into his NBA role after a modest start to his rookie campaign. Over the past month, his numbers have climbed steadily, with the center averaging 14.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in November. His improved efficiency and playmaking have bolstered a Pelicans team searching for offensive consistency. That momentum has carried into his recent performances. In his last three outings, Queen has posted 23.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game—production that reflects a player growing more comfortable asserting himself as a primary contributor. His outing against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday, where he recorded 20 points, nine rebounds, and multiple defensive plays, underscored both his promise and his competitive edge. Queen’s versatility has also drawn praise from prominent figures around the league. Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic has spoken highly of the rookie’s combination of passing and interior skill, while NBA legend Tim Duncan has noted elements of Queen’s approach that remind him of polished young bigs of past eras. Compliments of that nature are rare for first-year players. For the Pelicans, Queen’s emergence offers a potential long-term building block during a season full of turbulence. His steady rise gives the franchise something tangible to grow around, even as the overall results remain challenging.

2. Falcons’ Playful Jab Sparks Online Frenzy

The Falcons’ social-media post—captioned “Marked safe from Derik Queen” alongside a celebration clip of defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro—was intended as a tongue-in-cheek nod to the rookie’s recent buzz. While it referenced Queen during an NFL victory celebration, the playful swipe carried quickly across platforms, given the proximity of the Falcons’ and Pelicans’ fanbases. Queen’s response, citing the date of the Pelicans’ next matchup with the Hawks, appeared carefully measured. It didn’t escalate the moment, but instead transformed it into fuel for anticipation. It showcased the type of competitive humor that resonates with younger players and modern fans—a blend of confidence, personality, and subtle edge. Supporters of the Pelicans quickly rallied behind their rookie. Comments ranged from predictions of a massive scoring night—“60-piece, marking my calendar”—to affectionate expressions of admiration. Multiple fans noted Queen’s Baltimore roots and competitive nature, affirming that his fire aligns with their perception of his identity. The exchange also highlighted how rapidly Queen has become a fan favorite. In a season offering few bright spots, his combination of energy, humor, and production has given Pelicans supporters something to rally around.

3. Rising Star Amid a Difficult Pelicans Stretch

While Queen has thrived individually, the Pelicans’ overall trajectory has been far less encouraging. New Orleans has managed just two wins in its last 15 outings, falling behind early in the Western Conference standings and searching for answers on both ends of the floor. Injuries, inconsistency, and defensive problems have all contributed to the slide. Queen’s growth, however, provides a silver lining. His ability to create offense from the post, facilitate from the interior, and impact the glass has helped the Pelicans stay competitive in stretches. Even during losses, his development remains a focal point for the coaching staff. The organization views him as a key part of the long-term structure, giving him extended minutes and opportunities to experiment with his game. That trust has manifested in rising production, improved decision-making, and increased confidence—elements that are invaluable for a young big adjusting to NBA speed. As the season progresses, the Pelicans hope Queen’s trajectory can be a catalyst for broader improvement. While wins have been scarce, the emergence of a promising foundational piece offers meaningful encouragement for the future.