NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – The Pelicans say they are leaning on their veteran core as they work through a difficult start to the season.
Speaking with reporters, head coach, Willie Green, noted that Herb Jones, Trey Murphy, Zion Williamson, DeAndre Jordan and Kevon Looney are helping guide the young roster. He says the group is committed to improving.
Pelicans forward Zion Williamson tries to pass while under pressure from the Los Angeles Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard during the game Friday (Oct. 31) in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)(Mark J. Terrill | AP)
Green acknowledged frustration early in the season and said they understand fans feel it as well. They said the focus is on turning the page and getting better.
Reporters also asked about rookies Jeremiah Fears and Derek Queen. Green said both are working hard and enjoying the opportunity to compete at the NBA level. Minutes at the center position have been limited with Looney and Jordan available, but the team will mix in Queen when possible.
Coaches said Queen adds a different dynamic as a ball handler who can get into the paint, pass, and defend.
New Orleans Pelicans head coach Willie Green, left, confers with guard Jeremiah Fears, center, as assistant coach James Borrego looks on in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Denver Nuggets Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)(David Zalubowski | AP)
Pelicans forward Try Murphy said he understands he needs to be a better leader and help get teammates ready to play. He said the group has to compete, play the right way, and fight through early struggles.
Murphy said confidence is returning as he finds his rhythm after injury. He said the numbers will balance out as the sample size grows.
Players were asked about keeping belief despite losses. Murphy said they must stay focused on doing their jobs as professionals. He said the Pelicans have to find a way to win and “figure it out.”
Murphy said once they get the first win, things can turn, noting his rookie year when a bad start ended in a playoff appearance.
On facing teams with more experience, Murphy said those opponents know how to win and the Pelicans are working toward that. He said the focus must be on the court and not outside noise. He added that other teams also have roster changes, and the Pelicans won’t make excuses.
New Orleans Pelicans guard Jordan Poole (3) tries to drive past San Antonio Spurs forward Julian Champagnie (30) during the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Peter Forest)(Peter Forest | AP)
Murphy said he has spoken with Jordan Poole about transitioning from an early-season starting role to coming off the bench as a leader.
The Pelicans look to get their first win Tuesday against the Charlotte Hornets at Smoothie with game coverage starting at 6:30 p.m. on the Gulf Coast Sports Network.
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