In the NBA, veteran leadership often comes with moments that remind rookies of their place, but the New Orleans Pelicans are changing the narrative.
After a commanding 126-111 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday night, Pelicans rookie Derik Queen had a playful moment with 17-year veteran DeAndre Jordan. Jordan, making a rare start after only appearing in two games all season, found himself in the middle of a postgame interview when Queen took over the mic with a light-hearted jab.
“So how does it feel not playing since November, and getting us a win tonight?” Queen quipped, referencing Jordan's 52-game stretch without play.
While Queen delivered the jokes, Jordan had the last laugh on the court. With several key players out, head coach James Borrego called on the 37-year-old center to lead the defense.
Jordan delivered a throwback performance, pulling down 15 rebounds and blocking four shots in 32 minutes. He also added six points, proving he's still got plenty left in the tank.
"So how does it feel not playing since November, and getting us a win tonight?"
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 22, 2026
Derik Queen had jokes as he hijacked DeAndre Jordan's postgame interview 😅
(via @NBA)pic.twitter.com/pewzSxQ277
The Pelicans dominated the second half, outscoring the Sixers 60-35 over the final 21 minutes. Jordan Poole spearheaded the offense with 23 points and five 3-pointers, while Zion Williamson contributed 21 points. Saddiq Bey also stepped up with 20 points, helping the Pelicans break a losing streak and improve to 16-42 on the season.
For the Philadelphia 76ers, missing the injured Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey's 27 points weren't enough to stop a fourth consecutive loss.
The camaraderie between Queen and Jordan underscores why the Pelicans brought the veteran on board-not just for his defensive skills, but for the culture. If Queen feels comfortable enough to joke with a legend on live TV, it’s clear the atmosphere in New Orleans is buzzing in the right direction.