After trading up to select Derik Queen with the 13th pick, the biggest question for the New Orleans Pelicans is how they’ll develop the talented Maryland big man. Queen is a polished post scorer but lacks defensive instincts and a reliable outside shot—two essential qualities for success in today’s NBA. However, after photos of Queen working out with Pelicans player development coach Greg Monroe surfaced, it appears that the Pelicans are setting up Queen for optimal development.
Monroe joined the Pelicans staff last season as a player development coach after retiring from his 10-year NBA career. The now 35-year-old spent 10 years in the NBA and was once known for many of the same strengths and weaknesses Queen brings to the table. Early in his career, Monroe struggled defensively and was often exposed in the pick-and-roll due to a lack of foot speed. Throughout his time in the league, he progressed as a defender, adapting enough to remain productive in the league for a full decade
Having Monroe focus on Queen’s development, given that he entered the NBA with similar struggles, could be huge for Queen’s growth. There are numerous similarities between the two. Monroe was a very high-level passer for a big man playing in his era (career average of 2.1 assists per game). He often operated as a hub, working out of the nail, much like Queen did in college.
The Pelicans are building a strong developmental staff
With the Pelicans drafting two players in this year's lottery, they must place a significant focus on player development. So far, that is off to a great start with Corey Brewer leading the charge for this group in the Summer League. He brings 13 years of NBA experience and championship success, having won two national championships with the University of Florida and an NBA championship with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011. His leadership and perspective are valuable to a young roster.
Outside of Brewer, the Pelicans also have Jodie Meeks on their staff as a player development coach. Meeks spent 10 seasons in the NBA, excelling as a three-point shooter. The combination of Brewer, Meeks, and Monroe has built a diverse and experienced coaching team, each offering a unique development path for young talent.
With New Orleans having as much young talent as they do, the Pelicans' focus on development is crucial. Having three coaches with 10+ years of NBA playing experience on the staff is a significant advantage and will help maximize the young talent on their roster—especially for someone like Derik Queen, who gets to learn from a seasoned NBA pro with a similar playstyle to his own.