Pelicans Guard Derik Queen Undergoes Wrist Surgery

Pelicans Rookie Derik Queen undergoes Wrist Surgery, Faces Extended Absence

new Orleans Pelicans rookie Derik Queen is set to miss at least the beginning of training camp after undergoing surgery on Friday to repair a torn ligament in his left wrist.

Published: July 19, 2025

Updated: July 19, 2025

Derik Queen averaged 14.0 points and 11.0 rebounds in 3 NBA Summer League games.

What are teh potential implications of Derik Queen’s 8-12 week recovery timeline for the Pelicans’ start to the 2025-2026 NBA season?

Details of the Procedure & Recovery Timeline

New Orleans Pelicans guard, Derik Queen, underwent successful surgery on his left wrist on July 18th, 2025, to address a persistent ligament injury.The team announced the procedure was performed by Dr. Steven Shin at the Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles. While the exact nature of the ligament damage hasn’t been fully disclosed, sources indicate it was a chronic issue aggravated during summer league play.

The expected recovery timeline is estimated to be 8-12 weeks, putting his availability for the start of the 2025-2026 NBA season in question. This timeline will be closely monitored by the Pelicans’ medical staff, and rehabilitation will be a key focus.

Impact on the Pelicans’ Roster & Strategy

This injury presents a challenge for the Pelicans as they head into a crucial offseason. Queen, a rising sophomore, showed critically important promise during his rookie season, averaging 8.5 points and 4.2 rebounds in 68 games. His defensive versatility and developing offensive game made him a valuable asset off the bench.

Depth Concerns: The injury exacerbates existing concerns about the Pelicans’ guard depth.With key players already under contract, finding a reliable replacement for Queen during his absence will be a priority.

Potential Free Agency Moves: The Pelicans may explore the free agent market for a veteran guard who can provide immediate impact and experience. Names like Dennis Schroder or patty Mills could be considered.

Increased Role for Existing Players: Players like Jordan Hawkins and Naji Marshall will likely see an increase in playing time and responsibility during Queen’s recovery. This presents an opportunity for them to showcase their skills and potentially earn a larger role in the rotation.

summer League Performance Review: The team will likely re-evaluate their summer league players, looking for potential candidates to fill the void left by Queen.

Understanding Wrist Ligament Injuries in Basketball

Wrist injuries are common in basketball due to the repetitive motions of shooting, dribbling, and passing, as well as the risk of falls and collisions. Ligament injuries, specifically, can range in severity from mild sprains to complete tears.

Here’s a breakdown of common wrist ligament injuries:

1. Scapholunate Ligament (SL) Tear: This is one of the most common wrist ligament injuries, frequently enough occurring from a fall on an outstretched hand.
2. Lunotriquetral Ligament (LT) Tear: Similar to SL tears, LT tears can result from trauma or repetitive stress.
3. Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Tear: This injury affects the cartilage on the ulnar side of the wrist and can cause pain and instability.

Symptoms of a wrist ligament injury can include:

Pain and tenderness

Swelling

Limited range of motion

Weakness

Clicking or popping sensation

Rehabilitation Protocol for Wrist Surgery

A successful recovery from wrist surgery requires a structured rehabilitation program. The Pelicans’ medical staff will work closely with Queen to ensure he follows a progressive protocol.

Typical phases of rehabilitation include:

Phase 1 (0-4 weeks): Focuses on pain and swelling management,immobilization,and gentle range-of-motion exercises.

Phase 2 (4-8 weeks): Gradual increase in range of motion, strengthening exercises, and light functional activities.

Phase 3 (8-12 weeks): Advanced strengthening, proprioceptive exercises (balance and coordination), and return to sport-specific training.

Phase 4 (12+ weeks): Full return to basketball activities, with continued monitoring and maintenance exercises.

Key rehabilitation exercises may include:

Wrist flexion and extension

Wrist radial and ulnar deviation

Grip strengthening

Forearm pronation and supination

Proprioceptive drills

Previous NBA Player Wrist Injuries & Recovery

Several NBA players have successfully returned from wrist surgery,providing a positive outlook for Queen’s recovery.

Kyrie Irving: Faced multiple wrist injuries throughout his career, undergoing surgery in 2015. He returned to All-Star form after diligent rehabilitation.

Blake Griffin: Experienced a hand injury in 2019 that required surgery. While his overall performance declined afterward, he demonstrated the possibility of returning to play.

* marcus Smart: Underwent a hand surgery in 2023 and successfully returned to the court, maintaining his defensive intensity.

These cases highlight the importance of a comprehensive rehabilitation program and a patient approach to recovery. The Pelicans will likely draw upon these examples as they develop a plan for Queen.

long-Term Outlook for Derik Queen

Despite the setback, the long-term outlook for Derik Queen remains positive. He possesses a unique skillset and a strong work ethic. A full recovery, coupled with continued growth, could see him become a key contributor for the Pelicans for years to come. The team’s ability to navigate the challenges presented by his absence will be crucial to their success in the upcoming season. Monitoring his progress and providing the necessary support will