New Orleans Pelicans falter in a pivotal showdown against the Los Angeles Clippers, raising big questions about their playoff readiness. Turnovers piled up and pick-and-roll defense crumbled, exposing glaring weaknesses for a roster that has recently focused on making a postseason push. Can the Pelicans regroup in time, or is their path to the play-in tournament slipping away?

Jake Madison analyzes Jeremiah Fears’ breakout performances despite defensive lapses, digs into the offense’s resilience without Zion Williamson, and scrutinizes James Borrego’s evolving game plan. Highlights include Derik Queen’s impact, Saddiq Bey’s expanded role, and whether Zion’s reduced centrality on offense signals possible roster moves ahead. Key topics feature Pelicans’ defensive struggles, the tough upcoming schedule, and the importance of future clashes against the Portland Trail Blazers and Clippers. Is New Orleans equipped for a late-season surge, or will defensive woes doom their bid?

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!

TurboTax

This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

Betterhelp

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDONNBA.

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

FanDuel is giving you a way to turn that energy into even bigger potential wins with a College Basketball Parlay Profit Boost. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.

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.

The states were about as big as it gets in New Orleans, and Zion Williamson and the Pelicans got a big win against the Los Angeles Clippers. Zion dominated the game for the Pels and Jake Madison explains why that, and this game, is a really big deal. Plus, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George were held in check by Herb Jones. And Trey Murphy closed the game over CJ McCollum.

Join the Locked On Pelicans Insiders: https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonpelicans

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube

Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA

#NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans

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)

Are the New Orleans Pelicans the most frustrating team? A loss to the Houston Rockets followed up by a big win has Jake Madison begging for consistency. Plus, he breaks down the adjustments that allowed Brandon Ingram, CJ McCollum, and Jonas Valanciunas to all thrive.

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…

🎧 https://link.chtbl.com/LOPelicans?sid=YouTube

Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More

🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA

#NewOrleansPelicans #ZionWilliamson #NBA #pelicans

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)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New Orleans Pelicans crush Utah Jazz as Saddiq Bey dominates with a 42-point showcase. Is Bey the franchise cornerstone New Orleans needs for a playoff surge?

Jake Madison spotlights Bey’s clutch fourth-quarter heroics and growing impact on the Pelicans’ game plan. Insights include Zion Williamson’s strategic use as a gravity creator, DeJounte Murray’s evolving playmaking, and James Borrego’s effective adjustments. Question marks linger over rookie contributions from Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, as defensive lapses and rebounding woes threaten New Orleans’ postseason hopes. With contract discussions nearing and a tough schedule ahead, Madison explores roster decisions, positional needs, and whether Bey’s emergence can propel the Pelicans into contention.

Can New Orleans sustain this momentum, or will defensive weaknesses derail their playoff ambitions?

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.

DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.

DoorDash. In your bag all season long.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA

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.

New Orleans Pelicans bench Derik Queen and shake up their starting lineup, signaling a bold win-now mentality. Dejounte Murray’s on-court return and social media confirmation reinforce the franchise’s push for a postseason spot, even as Jeremiah Fears and Queen are relegated to lesser roles. Is development taking a backseat to immediate playoff aspirations, and could this aggressive strategy backfire?

Jake Madison unpacks the Pelicans’ pivot, analyzing rookie performance metrics, net ratings, and organizational decisions from Joe Dumars and James Borrego. The episode explores potential draft asset trades, Zion Williamson’s evolving role, and the critical need for roster improvements—especially at center. Can New Orleans close the gap for the play-in tournament amid a competitive Western Conference? Or do short-term gains threaten long-term franchise stability? Get all the insights on the Pelicans’ postseason path and what’s at stake for their future.

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.

DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.

DoorDash. In your bag all season long.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA

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.

New Orleans Pelicans snag a gritty 113-109 win over the Golden State Warriors, fueled by Dejounte Murray’s dramatic return and clutch plays. Has Murray’s comeback sparked a turnaround for the Pelicans, or are deeper roster questions looming?

Jake Madison highlights Bryce McGowEns’ game-changing bench performance, Saddiq Bey’s composure under late-game pressure, and strategic shifts with Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears moving to reserve roles. Discussion centers on James Borrego’s bold starting lineup choices, defensive adjustments featuring drop coverage with DeAndre Jordan, and implications for Zion Williamson. With roster depth tested and trade rumors swirling, the Pelicans’ future plans come into focus—especially as tougher opponents and key returns like Trey Murphy loom. Is this the path to playoff contention or a sign of a new direction 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 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.

DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.

DoorDash. In your bag all season long.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA

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.

The New Orleans Pelicans are one of the worst defensive teams in the league and it starts with their star player Zion Williamson and prized rookie Derik Queen. Jake Madison looks at what is causing defensive breakdowns, how Yves Missi could be the answer, and how the Pels need to make a big change in the front court next season.

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.

DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.

DoorDash. In your bag all season long.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA

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.

New Orleans Pelicans shake up their starting lineup as DeAndre Jordan delivers a commanding performance, sparking questions about lineup chemistry and defensive accountability. Can this bold move by James Borrego unlock the Pelicans’ true potential and address their season-long rebounding woes?

Jake Madison examines the impact of Jordan's rim protection and physicality, dissecting how the frontcourt pairing with Zion Williamson and Derik Queen shapes the team’s defense. Key highlights include Saddiq Bae’s consistent play, challenges surrounding offensive spacing, and Bryce McGowens’ recent signing—poised to add much-needed size and shooting. The discussion tackles trade-offs between developing young talent and winning now, and explores whether the Pelicans’ current mix can keep pace against top NBA contenders. Will Borrego find the right formula as injured stars return, or does the roster need further tweaks to stay competitive?

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.

DoorDash

From tipoff to overtime, stay in your bag and order on DoorDash.

Get snacks, drinks, gear — whatever gets you through the season — delivered right to your door.

DoorDash. In your bag all season long.

PrizePicks

Download the PrizePicks app today and use code LOCKEDONNFL to get $50 in lineups after you play your first $5 lineup.

Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA

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.