The arrival of Jamahl Mosley as head coach in New Orleans represents a cultural shift that will make or break the Pelicans’ youngest players.
Given Mosley’s track record as the Orlando Magic head coach, he has the potential to improve the development of Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen while ushering them into becoming bona fide stars in the NBA.
It became clear from his introductory press conference and initial interviews that Mosley is going to prioritize accountability and defensive intensity. It’s these two things that will pay immediate dividends for Fears and Queen.
"There is a toughness about [Fears]. There is a seriousness about him. There is a focus about him. He wants to be great. Same with DQ... Something goes on, he is the first one in there. That's what we want"
— Pelicans Film Room (@PelsFilmRoom) May 26, 2026
-- Jamahl Mosely on Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen pic.twitter.com/NB8YmfqTEs
Both players showed flashes of dynamic scoring ability and creativity with the ball in their hands, but they are still learning how to control the tempo and make the right reads under pressure. They also need to improve on the defensive side of the ball where they struggled to keep up with the bigger, stronger, and faster players at the NBA level.
Mosley showed he can develop young stars
Mosley’s emphasis on discipline and intensity will help the Pelicans’ talented youngsters better understand how to become impact players on defense. Even more importantly, Mosley will empower them with confidence while holding them accountable.
During his time in Orlando, Mosley proved he could connect with young talent like Jalen Suggs, Franz Wagner, and Paolo Banchero while helping them grow into more complete players. It’s this same approach that should help take Fears and Queen to the next level.
Both players showed tremendous potential in their rookie seasons, but will have to work hard to avoid a sophomore slump. Mosley’s attitude and approach to coaching will make sure both Fears and Queen make the most of their skills and don’t rest on their laurels.
Fears and the Queen’s improvement and success will play a huge part in whether this Pelicans team can finally become a winning franchise.
The emphasis of the media so far has been on how Mosley will impact Zion Williamson. Yes, this obviously will also be vital to the Pelicans’ success. However, Williamson is already further into his career and now on his fifth head coach.
Fears and Queen are still relatively new to the NBA and still learning how to practice, train, and compete at the highest level. They showed a lot of positives in their rookie seasons based on pure talent.
To take their performance to the next level, the talented pair will need to put in the work behind-the-scenes under Mosley’s tutelage.
If Mosley’s past success with young talent is any indication, Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen could be among the biggest beneficiaries of the Pelicans new head coach.
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