Locked On Pelicans - Daily Podcast On The New Orleans Pelicans

PROOF OF CONCEPT: How Dejounte Murray’s Return Could IMPACT the New Orleans Pelicans’ Future

Dejounte Murray's impending return signals a pivotal audition for the New Orleans Pelicans' future. With guard play lacking and Murray's trade value at stake, Jake Madison explores whether Murray can steady the rotation, boost clutch performance, and shape offseason decisions. Can Murray’s presence transform the lineup with Zion Williamson, Derrick Queen, and Trey Murphy III, or will New Orleans seek another solution at point guard?   Jake also tackles the NBA’s controversial anti-tanking proposals and what they mean for teams like the Pelicans, who once found hope in the lottery. Plus, local billionaire Todd Graves’ rumored interest in ownership gets a reality check—while the future of the Smoothie King Center and franchise stability come into focus. Don’t miss this all-encompassing look at the Pelicans’ evolving strategy on and off the court as the team prepares for a crucial stretch run.   Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms 🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-pelicans/   Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/nba #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! Turbo Tax For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.   Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.     Quo Make this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/lockedonnba.   Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.     5-Hour ENERGY Have your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at 5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon.   Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.   FanDuel Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.   Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.     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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

NO CHANGE: Zion Williamson’s HEALTHY Stretch FAILS to Boost Pelicans’ Trade Position

New Orleans Pelicans face tough questions as Zion Williamson’s trade value remains stagnant—even after a stretch of healthy play. Can the franchise build a winning core around Williamson and rookie Derik Queen, or are defensive weaknesses and a lack of shooting holding the roster back? Jake Madison breaks down Zion’s recent performances, why NBA teams remain wary of max contracts for offense-only stars, and the challenges of pairing two non-shooting bigs. The show analyzes how the Pelicans fare with Queen and Williamson sharing the floor, highlighting troubling net rating and defensive stats. Plus, the controversial process behind the Derik Queen trade comes under scrutiny—did New Orleans sacrifice too much future draft capital for short-term gains? With offseason moves looming and a contender’s blueprint uncertain, Pelicans fans won’t want to miss this reality check on the team’s direction. Is addition by subtraction the only way forward for New Orleans? Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-pelicans/ Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/nba#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!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.   QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/lockedonnba.  Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.   5-Hour ENERGYHave your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at 5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon. IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuelUse your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.  Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

DECISION: Are the New Orleans Pelicans Ready to CHOOSE DerIk Queen’s Best Position for Success?

The New Orleans Pelicans face a franchise-defining choice: is Derik Queen their long-term center or power forward? Roster construction, defensive identity, and playoff potential hinge on this decision, with past missteps around Zion Williamson and Anthony Davis still echoing through the organization. Jake Madison breaks down the challenges of building around unique big men in today's NBA, comparing Queen’s fit alongside Zion and weighing key on-court combinations. Key discussions include the team’s defensive struggles with Queen at both the 4 and 5, the limitations of non-shooting lineups, and which player archetypes best complement New Orleans’ young core. From possible trades for elite rim protectors to the importance of gathering lineup data over the final stretch of the season, Jake Madison examines what the Pelicans must do to avoid repeating past mistakes and unlock their postseason potential. Can New Orleans finally build a contender around their talented but unconventional frontline? Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-pelicans/ Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/nba#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!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.   QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/lockedonnba.  Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.   5-Hour ENERGYHave your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at 5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon. IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuelUse your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.  Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are the New Orleans Pelicans ACTUALLY Better Off Under James Borrego or Is Trouble Brewing?

New Orleans Pelicans show major offensive improvements under James Borrego, but defensive rebounding issues threaten to derail their season. The offense ranks faster and more balanced compared to Willie Green’s tenure, while Zion Williamson’s isolation plays, Trey Murphy’s expanded skillset, and Sadiq Bae’s post-ups generate momentum. Turnovers are down, and the Pelicans now rank ninth in turnover percentage, showcasing smarter ball control. Jake Madison highlights the connection between cleaner offense and improved transition defense, noting efforts from Herb Jones and a commitment to containing pick-and-roll ball handlers. However, persistent struggles on the defensive glass leave New Orleans vulnerable, as the team’s starting lineup continues to underwhelm. Can the Pelicans overcome their rebounding woes and convert their tangible progress into playoff success, or is another early exit looming despite their midseason leap? Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-pelicans/ Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/nba#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!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.   QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/lockedonnba.  Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.   5-Hour ENERGYHave your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at 5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon. IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuelUse your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.  Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

LEGACY: Why Pelicans MUST Retire Chris Paul's Number—Franchise History CHANGED Forever!

Chris Paul elevated the New Orleans Hornets, making the franchise relevant during uncertain times—should his jersey be the first ever retired by the Pelicans? Jake Madison explores Chris Paul’s profound impact on New Orleans basketball, from near-MVP seasons and unforgettable playoff moments to his off-court leadership that anchored the team amid relocation rumors. Is it time for the Pelicans to finally honor their greatest player? The episode also breaks down a potential NBA expansion draft: who should New Orleans protect—would Zion Williamson be safe, and what tough decisions loom for the current roster? Plus, there’s a recap of the Rising Stars Game with standout showings from Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, and a spotlight on Trey Murphy III’s new leadership role with the NBA Players Association. Get sharp analysis and all the storylines Pelicans fans can’t afford to miss. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-pelicans/ Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/nba#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!Turbo TaxFor a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.  Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.   QuoMake this the year where no opportunity — and no customer — slips away. Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/lockedonnba.  Quo — no missed calls, no missed customers.   5-Hour ENERGYHave your cake & drink it too. Birthday cake-flavor is back, no fork needed. Vanilla-y cakey flavor, caffeinated kick, and no sugar. It's party time. Order Now at 5-hourENERGY.com or Amazon. IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuelUse your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.  Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.   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) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.