Locked On Pelicans - Daily Podcast On The New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans Pelicans shock fans by trading Jose Alvarado to the New York Knicks for second-round picks, leaving the roster and team identity in question. Could this be the start of a franchise overhaul, or are bolder moves coming over the offseason? Jake Madison examines the Pelicans’ confused strategy as league insiders and fans alike question the front office's vision. The discussion probes Zion Williamson’s future, potential strategies, and whether a full rebuild or a “win-now” approach is imminent.

Key topics include the logic behind Alvarado’s departure, the significance of acquiring draft capital, and which players—like Trey Murphy and Herb Jones—could be next. Insightful analysis covers the impact on the Pelicans’ locker room, the development opportunities for rookies Jeremiah Fears and Bryce McGowens, and coaching speculation around James Borrego. Can New Orleans find direction before another season slips away, or will the current leadership risk it all on pride and uncertainty?

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#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

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.

Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.

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.  

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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 collapse in overtime against the short-handed Milwaukee Bucks, sparking major questions about the franchise’s direction. Trey Murphy’s 44-point explosion couldn’t save the Pelicans from a lackluster defensive effort, as Jake Madison calls out the team’s apathy and the front office’s belief in a “playoff-caliber roster.” With Zion Williamson logging heavy minutes but making costly mistakes down the stretch, is New Orleans stuck in denial about its true identity?

Jake Madison breaks down the Pelicans’ embarrassing loss, the failure of key acquisitions like Jordan Poole, mounting trade rumors around Saddiq Bey and Jose Alvarado, and why front office strategy may need a full reset. With the NBA trade deadline looming, can New Orleans pivot its approach and salvage this season, or are deeper changes required to build a winning culture around young prospects like Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen?

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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

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.

Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.

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.  

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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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.

Memphis Grizzlies shake up the NBA landscape by trading Jaren Jackson Jr., signaling a bold reset while piling up future draft picks. Facing a stacked Western Conference, the Grizzlies’ decision puts mounting pressure on the New Orleans Pelicans to confront their own crossroads—should they follow Memphis’s lead and consider moving core players like Trey Murphy and Herb Jones?

Jake Madison breaks down why staying in NBA purgatory could doom the Pelicans to Sacramento Kings–level irrelevance, analyzing the risks and rewards of a full rebuild. Key talking points include the real value behind stockpiling draft picks, ownership’s willingness to embrace short-term pain for long-term gain, and the harsh lessons from teams that waited too long to sell high. As trade season heats up, are the Pelicans prepared to pick a direction, or will hesitation cost them their future?

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🎧 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

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.

Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.

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.  

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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 face a crisis of their own making as the NBA trade deadline looms. A brutal collapse against the Charlotte Hornets—blowing a 22-point lead and scoring just 31 second-half points—amplifies tough questions about Jordan Poole’s $30 million contract and the value of the team's underperforming role players like Saddiq Bey and Jose Alvarado. Is the Pelicans’ front office ready to make hard choices, or will they repeat past mistakes?

Jake Madison breaks down the missteps in roster construction, the challenge of moving off negative contracts, and the pitfalls of falling in love with role players who aren’t moving the needle. As fan apathy threatens to swallow the franchise, Jake Madison argues that standing pat at the deadline would send the wrong message. Can New Orleans make a decisive move and restore hope, or is a patient rebuild the only way forward?

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🎧 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

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.

Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.

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.  

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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 face a critical crossroad—will they commit to a youth movement with rising stars Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears or continue the "win now" push around Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy? Jake Madison spotlights the team's identity crisis after a telling loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, questioning whether the Pelicans’ offense can ever click without a defined leader and a reliable closing strategy.

With the NBA trade deadline looming, Jake Madison unpacks key trade rumors, the value of role players like Saddiq Bey and Jose Alvarado, and what potential moves might shape the franchise's long-term outlook. The episode features sharp takes on Herb Jones' impact, the need for a true centerpiece at center, and the tough decisions facing Joe Dumars on possible Ja Morant talks. Can the Pelicans avoid being stuck in NBA purgatory—or is a rebuild their only path forward?

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🎧 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

Quo

Make this the year where no opportunity - and no cutsomer - slips away.

Try Quo for free plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to http://Quo.com/lockedonnba.

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.  

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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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 signal a shift in franchise philosophy as trade rumors swirl around Yves Missi, Jose Alvarado, and Saddiq Bey. Prioritizing first-round picks over quick fixes, the front office appears to be embracing patience and long-term growth instead of rushing a win-now timeline. Could this strategic pivot mark the beginning of a true rebuild around rookies like Derik Queen and Jeremiah Fears while Zion Williamson’s future in New Orleans remains uncertain?

Jake Madison unpacks the hottest names on the NBA trade market, possible bidders like the Knicks, Pacers, Warriors, Lakers, and Raptors, and what holding out for maximum value could mean for the Pelicans’ trajectory. Key topics include Mevci’s trade value, locker room discontent, the pitfalls of losing core veterans, and the risks of player disenchantment with another losing season. Don’t miss this on-point breakdown of the Pelicans’ evolving strategy and what it means for fans hoping for sustainable success.

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🎧 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.  

Rocket Money

Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s looming trade request may be the lifeline the New Orleans Pelicans need—if they resist the urge to make a short-sighted move. Jake Madison breaks down why staying clear of the Giannis sweepstakes and holding onto the 2027 unprotected Milwaukee Bucks pick could set the Pelicans up for future NBA Draft dominance, with the real possibility of landing two top-4 picks in a key rebuilding year.

Key topics include the precarious state of the Dejounte Murray trade, why patience is now the franchise’s smartest play, and the encouraging revelation that the front office never pursued a trade for Ja Morant. Jake Madison assesses rookie impacts from Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen, the Bucks’ plummeting outlook, and why the Pelicans must prioritize long-term upside over quick fixes before the trade deadline chaos. Can New Orleans finally chart a sustainable path forward?

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.  

Rocket Money

Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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' loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder exposes glaring weaknesses just ahead of the NBA trade deadline. Can Zion Williamson’s offensive evolution and the emergence of Yves Missi as a rim protector offset catastrophic rebounding woes and lackluster three-point shooting? Jake Madison unpacks how the Pelicans’ defeat, despite a healthy roster and positive stretches from Saddiq Bey, highlights fundamental issues that must influence upcoming roster moves.

Key topics include the impact of poor defensive rebounding, the team’s struggles from beyond the arc, questionable decisions from coach James Borrego, and how the front office should prioritize long-term fixes over desperate quick trades. Jake Madison weighs in on the controversial officiating—including Lou Dort’s late-game altercation—and lays out why New Orleans must focus on shedding bad contracts and planning for next season, not chasing fleeting play-in hopes. Will the Pelicans commit to the rebuild they need?

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.  

Rocket Money

Let Rocket Money help you reach your financial goals faster. Join at http://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON

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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

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New Orleans Pelicans face swirling trade rumors as speculation links Ja Morant to the team in a blockbuster deal. Could unloading Dejounte Murray and Jordan Poole’s unfavorable contracts for Morant transform the franchise, or is this just noise? Jake Madison calls out the real story behind the rumors, dissecting contract value, team leverage, and credible reporting from top insiders like Marc Stein and Jake Fisher.

Pelicans’ front office strategy comes into question as they seek a first-round pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, despite having traded away their own. Are they overlooking the difference in draft pick value? Plus, rising stars Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen receive All-Star Weekend honors, signaling hope for the team’s future. Should New Orleans go all-in on trades, or focus on developing young talent? Don’t miss Jake Madison’s sharp analysis on the Pelicans’ drama, roster moves, and the implications for their playoff ambitions.

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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)

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New Orleans Pelicans reignite hope with back-to-back wins over the Memphis Grizzlies and San Antonio Spurs, powered by Zion Williamson’s aggressive offense and defensive resurgence. Could this signal a turning point for a team flirting with a rebuild? Herb Jones anchors a revitalized defense, forcing the squad to step up their hustle, while Trey Murphy and Saddiq Bey deliver clutch performances. Tves Missi's breakout against the Spurs showcases why his name is rising in trade talks.

Jake Madison breaks down the Pelicans’ evolving approach, including a bold coaching strategy targeting Victor Wembanyama and the impact of defensive adjustments. Roster shifts take center stage as Jordan Poole falls out of the rotation and rookie minutes dwindle—raising tough questions about the future of New Orleans’ two timelines experiment. With the NBA trade deadline looming and rumors swirling around a potential John Morant deal, can the Pelicans build on recent momentum or is another losing streak around the corner?

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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  

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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.  

Rocket Money

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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

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The NBA and NFL seasons are here, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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)

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