Derik Queen Fantasy Stats

New Orleans Pelicans center Derik Queen (wrist) doesn't have an exact return date, according to Joe Dumars, the club's head of basketball operations. The rookie big man underwent surgery to repair a torn scapholunate ligament in mid-July. It was announced that he will be re-evaluated in 12 weeks. Unfortunately, this means Queen could be out for the entire preseason, as he's scheduled for re-evaluation in mid-October. The injury will hinder Queen's chances of making a strong early impression. He already has a battle on his hands for playing time, with Yves Missi, Karlo Matkovic, and Kevon Looney providing New Orleans with solid depth at the center position.

New Orleans Pelicans center Derik Queen (wrist) underwent surgery to repair a torn scapholunate ligament, an injury he picked up during Summer League play. He will be re-evaluated in 12 weeks. The rookie appeared in three contests in Las Vegas, averaging 14.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.0 blocks. Unfortunately, Queen will now miss most (if not all) of training camp. He's also expected to be sidelined to begin the 2025 campaign. While this shouldn't impact his dynasty value, his redraft stock will likely take a hit, even more so if he needs more time to rehab. It's unknown how Queen will fit into the rotation upon his return, although it appears Karlo Matkovic and Kevon Looney could benefit by getting more minutes behind Yves Missi.

New Orleans Pelicans center Derik Queen recorded 17 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and one steal in 28 minutes on the floor in Tuesday's 93-87 Summer League loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. Queen has now posted a double-double in three consecutive Summer League outings, averaging 14.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.0 blocks across 27.3 minutes per game. The playmaking big man's strong performance at Summer League could lead to a significant role in New Orleans frontcourt to kick off the upcoming campaign.