Jose and Steve dive into the latest NBA insights, reflecting on the Oklahoma City Thunder's championship win, their potential for future success, and the implications of player contracts in the evolving league landscape. The Thunder, characterized as a well-structured young team, is poised for continued success, although financial decisions loom large. The discussion also touches on player injuries, particularly those involving Achilles tendons, and the draft's surprising selections, notably the New Orleans Pelicans' pick of Derrick Queen.

As they explore player dynamics, the Atlanta Hawks emerge as a sleeper team for the upcoming season, with the addition of Kristaps Porzingis potentially reshaping their defensive strategy. The overall conversation highlights the balance between team loyalty, market dynamics, and the pressing need for luck in the NBA.

The New Orleans Pelicans have made a bold move by trading their 2026 unprotected first-round pick to move up in the draft and select Derek Queen, raising eyebrows among analysts. This decision sparks debate: is it a calculated risk for a franchise striving for success, or a reckless gamble that could haunt them?

Joe Dumars, the Pelicans' GM, faces scrutiny for relinquishing valuable assets without a clear plan. Critics question whether Queen, who has shown potential but struggles with conditioning and defense, is worth such a significant investment. The Pelicans' strategy appears muddied, particularly after trading CJ McCollum and acquiring Jordan Poole from a struggling team.

As the NBA landscape shifts, the implications of this trade could shape the Pelicans' future. With a loaded 2026 draft class on the horizon, the risk of losing out on a top prospect looms large. Was this a savvy move or a misstep that may hinder their progress in a competitive Western Conference?

The recent trade involving Derek Queen moving to the New Orleans Pelicans has sparked significant controversy, with analysts describing it as one of the dumbest trades of the decade. The Pelicans traded up 10 spots to select Queen at number 13, sacrificing an unprotected first-round pick swap for 2026 with Milwaukee. The Atlanta Hawks, now benefitting from the deal, are seen as the clear winners, gaining a significant asset while only moving down in the draft.

With the growing speculation that Zion Williamson may be leaving New Orleans, this trade raises questions about the team's direction. Analysts believe that the Pelicans are trying to build a roster that compensates for a potential Zion trade, but critics argue that this move only weakens their position for next season. Despite Queen's offensive potential, concerns remain regarding his defensive reliability and work ethic, leading to skepticism about the trade's long-term value for New Orleans.

The New Orleans Pelicans made a questionable decision with their recent trades, effectively trading away two first-round picks and an unprotected 2026 first-rounder. This move raises concerns about the team’s future, especially regarding their commitment to Zion Williamson and the fit of newcomer Derek Queen within the roster. Analysts are questioning how impactful Queen must be to justify such a steep cost, suggesting he would need to be a multi-time All-Star or even a Hall of Famer to make this gamble worthwhile.

With Zion untrustworthy due to injury concerns, the Pelicans must salvage their future. If they fail to make the playoffs next year, the value of their trades will be hard to defend. The episode highlights the need for the Pelicans to solidify their roster, particularly with uncertainty surrounding Zion's health. Without adequate protection on trades, the team risks crippling its future prospects.