Why James Borrego is betting on Derrick Quinn’s rise in 2026 ROTI

The The New Orleans Pelicans knew Derrick Quinn was a productive jump before the 2025 NBA draft James Borrego he wasn’t expecting everything else the Maryland alum was bringing home for Mardi Gras. Fortunately, it now seems apparent that the rebounding foundation of a Rookie of the Year candidate, along with new edge protection and unexpected playmaking, can solidify the kind of sustainable work this franchise has sought for decades.

The bounce was always meant to be there. Unfortunately, the inability to secure defensive rebounds consistently undermines an otherwise superior defense. Yet Borrego did constantly raising the bar to see how much a newbie can do.

“Rebounding is one of those things that is pretty transferable from the college game to the NBA,” Borrego began. “That’s something (the front office) saw in college that could translate. I think it was there, so I think we should be looking for more. Why not? If (Queen) is at 10, why not look for 12? Let’s see where it takes him. I think challenging him on the boards is a good thing. He has a knack for” (rebounding).”

That skill was obvious. The Relentless Pursuit of Derrick Quinn on the glass she anchored a Pelicans defense that was often bullied last season. It happens after he secures the ball that really opened eyes and changed the team’s offensive calculus.

“I think the biggest thing is what (Kraljica) did with the ball in his hands. In the full court, his ability, our points per possession when he has the ball off the rebound in transition, was really significant. I didn’t expect that,” Borrego admitted. “Like, he led the break as a playmaker in transition from the boards, the center he was for us was significant, and in the half court as well.”

The coach’s surprise is evident when talking about how quickly Queen has assumed such a prominent role in the offense. What started as an experiment has evolved into a reliable offensive weapon, especially at critical moments.

“Just playing through him, I thought we were going to try a little bit,” Borrego added. “To play over him for a whole half, a whole quarter to close out the game against the Spurs, I didn’t see it coming this early in his career.”

Still, just rebounding and playing the game isn’t enough for the modern starting center. Borrego was specific about the final pillar needed for Quinn to build an All-Star career. Fortunately, the Pelicans already see the potential.

“Oh, and edge protection,” Borrego said. “If you want to be a top five in today’s NBA, you have to bring some rim protection. We’ve seen some growth (from Queen) in that area as well.”

That growth showed not only in blocks, but in deterrence. Altered shots, earlier kicks and the guard thinking twice before challenging the paint are positives. For the Pelicans, 2026 isn’t about waiting for a superstar savior. It’s about Derrick Quinn growing as a defensive anchor who starts the offense, a rookie who plays a poised veteran.