Locked On Pelicans - Daily Podcast On The New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans Pelicans shock the Houston Rockets with a dramatic 25-point comeback, sparking questions about Zion Williamson’s future role on the team. Is this proof the Pelicans have finally turned the page? Jake Madison unpacks how grit, resilience, and sharp coaching led New Orleans to a thrilling 133-128 overtime win against a legitimate title contender. Key storylines include Herb Jones locking down Kevin Durant and igniting the Pelicans' defense, Saddiq Bey’s emergence as the unexpected closer, and James Borrego’s bold decision to bench Zion in crunch time. The discussion weighs the shifting team culture, the impact of key role players like Trey Murphy and Derik Queen, and what Borrego’s fresh approach means for the franchise’s direction. Can the Pelicans ride this new energy to a playoff push—or has a new era begun in New Orleans basketball? Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

New Orleans Pelicans ignite under interim coach James Borrego, flashing “violence and speed” on the court but still searching for a true offensive identity. Can this energetic shift propel them out of mediocrity, or does the roster need a bigger overhaul to match contenders like the Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets? Jake Madison breaks down how Zion Williamson, Derik Queen, Jeremiah Fears, and Trey Murphy are adapting to Borrego’s system, analyzing surges in points in the paint, rim frequency, and transition play. Key topics include the challenges of building around a motion-based offense, the team’s struggles and improvement on defense, and whether the Pelicans should model themselves after the Nuggets’ or Rockets’ blueprints. Upcoming tests against the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, and Cleveland Cavaliers could define the Pelicans’ trajectory. Will New Orleans cement a lasting identity or keep tinkering as the season winds down? Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Derik Queen’s versatility is transforming the New Orleans Pelicans’ offense, unlocking new dimensions in Trey Murphy III’s game and raising a season-defining question: Can Queen also maximize Zion Williamson’s impact? Jake Madison spotlights Queen’s dynamic passing, instant chemistry with Murphy, and how these developments signal a shift in the Pelicans’ long-term building blocks. Key discussions cover Zion Williamson’s off-ball potential, the challenges of adapting his role alongside Queen, and parallels to Nikola Jokic’s partnership with Aaron Gordon on the Denver Nuggets. The episode also explores defensive concerns for a Queen-Zion frontcourt and why the next roster moves will be critical for New Orleans’ future. Is it time for the Pelicans to rethink their core and prioritize shooting and defense around their rookies? Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

New Orleans Pelicans face a turning point as trade season heats up—could tearing down the roster jeopardize the growth of rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen? Should Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy, and Herb Jones stay to support the team's future, or will pressure mount for a fire sale ahead of the NBA Draft? Jake Madison breaks down the impact of keeping veteran talent and why development around core prospects must remain a top priority. Hot topics include rumored trade interest in Trey Murphy and Herb Jones, the realistic market for Jose Alvarado, and the latest buzz around Zion Williamson’s long-term value. With insights on salary cap strategy, team culture, and the importance of avoiding a hasty rebuild, this episode explores what it will take for the Pelicans to return to winning basketball and build a competitive core for next season. Is patience the key, or should New Orleans shake up the roster now? Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

New Orleans Pelicans shine as Jeremiah Fears dominates his Chicago homecoming, powering the team to a 114-104 victory over the Bulls. Did the rookie just prove he’s ready to be a franchise cornerstone? With 20 points—including a clutch 10 in the fourth quarter—and defensive grit, Fears sparks questions about the team’s future ceiling. Jake Madison spotlights Zion Williamson’s unique bench role, Karlo Matkovic's surprising impact, and James Borrego’s evolving game management strategy. The analysis highlights improvements in pace, defensive rebounding, and the team’s developing on-court identity amid injuries and roster changes. Trade season heats up, leaving fans to wonder: will the Pelicans shake things up or build around their promising rookie core? Don’t miss insights on New Orleans’ competitive edge and what these performances mean for next season. Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA #NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Men’s now at https://SKIMS.com. When you place your order, choose “podcast” in the post-purchase survey and select our show from the dropdown to let them know we sent you. The SKIMS Holiday Shop is open — so if you’re looking for the perfect gift this season, SKIMS has you covered. Gusto Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/lockedonNBA and get three months free when you run your first payroll. Rugiet Visit https://rugiet.com/lockedonnba to get 15% off your first order. And don’t forget to use our code LOCKEDONNBA so they know we sent you. Rugiet — stop making excuses and start making moves. Rocket Money Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money. Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today. Wayfair Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less. Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Robinhood You expect more from yourself. Expect more from your money. Get started today at robinhood.com/yourmoney. Your money. Your move. All investments involve risk, including loss of principal. Options, futures, and crypto trading carry significant risk and may not suit all investors. Securities offered through Robinhood Financial LLC, member SIPC. Futures trading is offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC and not SPIC or FDIC protected. Crypto offered through Robinhood Crypto, LLC (NMLS ID 1702840), not FDIC or SIPC protected. Portfolio management offered by Robinhood Strategies, an SEC-registered advisor. Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)