The 2025 NBA Draft has recently concluded, and despite the event now spanning two nights, one particular move in the first round continues to draw significant attention and criticism across the NBA world.
After selecting former Oklahoma guard Jeremiah Fears at No. 7 overall, the New Orleans Pelicans traded up from pick No. 23 to pick No. 13. The cost for this move was substantial: the Pelicans sent the Atlanta Hawks the draft rights to Asa Newell (the No. 23 overall selection) and an unprotected 2026 first-round pick. This price is considered particularly high because the Hawks are entitled to the better of either the Pelicans` or the Milwaukee Bucks` 2026 first-round pick, a condition stemming from the Jrue Holiday trade back in 2020.
Consequently, in exchange for moving down just 10 spots, the Hawks acquired an unprotected first-round pick from a team that finished 21-61 last season, or alternatively, a pick from a team facing uncertainty regarding the future of its star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. Whichever of these two picks is more favorable will go to Atlanta. This trade sent shockwaves throughout the league, with one assistant general manager reportedly telling The Athletic:
(Quote context implies strong criticism, though the specific quote text was not provided in the original source excerpt.)
It is important to consider the player the Pelicans acquired with the 13th overall pick. They selected former Maryland center Derik Queen, a player they are clearly high on. If Queen develops into a standout player and provides immediate impact, helping New Orleans stay out of the lottery next season, the trade might not appear as detrimental as it currently seems.
Queen, the Big Ten Freshman of the Year, averaged 16.5 points and 9.0 rebounds per game last season. His 16.5 points were the second-highest scoring average ever by a Maryland freshman, and his 9.0 rebounds led all Division I freshmen. He also recorded the most 20-point, 10-rebound games among D-I freshmen last season with five, showcasing both crafty finishing skills near the rim and promising upside with his jump shot.
However, the potential payoff for the Hawks is significant. They could receive a very high draft pick if Zion Williamson faces further injury issues next season or if Antetokounmpo were to get hurt or traded, scenarios that underscore the risk the Pelicans took by trading an unprotected future first-round pick.
Jasper Hawthorne