Pelicans Appoint Jamahl Mosley: Can He Unlock Potential in Zion Williamson and Derik Queen?
The New Orleans Pelicans have officially hired former Orlando Magic coach Jamahl Mosley as their new head coach, as reported by ESPN. This decision follows a turbulent coaching situation that saw former head coach Willie Green last just 12 games before being replaced by interim coach James Borrego. Mosley’s hiring comes with high expectations, particularly given his defensive acumen demonstrated during his time with the Magic. Despite being fired after a playoff exit, he led the Magic to top-five defensive rankings in both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. The Pelicans, however, struggled defensively this past season, ranking 23rd in the league, and their challenges are compounded by the fit of key players Zion Williamson and Derik Queen. Key issues include: Defensive Struggles: The duo of Williamson and Queen allowed 122.8 points per 100 possessions together, ranking in the 12th percentile for defensive efficiency. Offensive Fit: Neither player is known for their three-point shooting, complicating spacing for scoring opportunities. Despite these challenges, the Pelicans possess a surplus of assets, including control over future first-round picks, allowing room for significant roster changes. Mosley’s effectiveness will largely depend on how the front office addresses the pressing fit issues within the team and whether he can creatively leverage his players’ strengths more effectively than he did in Orlando. The upcoming season will be critical for Mosley as he seeks to implement a coherent plan and improve the Pelicans’ overall performance.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-05-18