After taking a big step forward this season, the Portland Trail Blazers are looking to build on their young core with the No. 11 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. According to PFSN’s Brandon Austin, Portland should focus on Maryland freshman big man Derik Queen to strengthen its frontcourt offense.
Despite being projected as a bottom team in the Western Conference, the Blazers improved by 15 wins from last season. They finished in 12th place with a 36-46 record, going 23-18 over the campaign’s second half. During that stretch, their defensive rating ranked third in the NBA at 110.0.
Portland already has several promising frontcourt players. These include rookie center Donovan Clingan, who protects the rim well, second-year wing Toumani Camara, and fifth-year forward Deni Avdija, who had a breakout performance late in the season. The team also has a talented young backcourt featuring Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe.
But with no proven primary scoring option, the Blazers might take a chance on an offensive-minded prospect like Queen. The 2025 March Madness standout, who hit a game-winning buzzer-beater against Colorado State in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, would give Portland a new look in the paint.
Why Derik Queen Makes Sense at No. 11
Queen is a 6-foot-10, 246-pound big man known for his guard-like offensive skills, rebounding, and passing. In Austin’s latest 2025 NBA mock draft, he explained why Queen could be a good fit in Portland, despite some concerns about his defense and athletic build.
“Derik Queen could solidify this frontcourt for years to come. Queen stands out as one of the most polished bigs in the draft, combining strength, finesse and a high basketball IQ,” Austin wrote.
“Though not an elite vertical athlete, Queen’s game is defined by touch, timing and feel. At 6’9” and nearly 250 pounds, he plays with power on the block, but his footwork, soft hands and ability to score in tight spaces make him a true post technician. He consistently creates space with skill rather than speed, and finishes with craft.
“What truly sets Queen apart is his passing ability. He’s one of the most advanced playmaking bigs in the class, capable of reading the floor and finding cutters or shooters with ease.”
Austin noted that Queen’s outside shooting still needs work. His 20% 3-point shooting on one attempt per game is a concern, but his 75% free-throw shooting shows promise.
“His 3-point shot is still a work in progress, but there’s reason for optimism,” Austin wrote. “He has a soft touch in the midrange and knocked down over 75% of his free throws. If he can develop into a consistent floor spacer, his offensive versatility will reach another level.”
As for Queen’s defense, Austin said his strength and basketball IQ should help him hold his own against NBA big men.
“Defensively, Queen has some physical limitations, but his strength and basketball IQ allow him to stay competitive in most matchups. He brings a rare mix of low-post scoring, playmaking, and toughness that should translate well at the next level,” Austin wrote.
Despite not having a reliable outside shot, Queen put up strong numbers during the season. Over 36 games, he averaged 16.5 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 52.6%. His production outshone several of the players projected to go ahead of him in the draft.
Queen’s Comparisons and Fit in Portland
Queen’s skill set has drawn comparisons to several standout NBA centers, including Alperen Şengün and DeMarcus Cousins. Şengün has been a go-to post scorer and top passer for the Houston Rockets, who finished second in the West at 52-30 this season.
However, there are still questions about whether teams can succeed with a big man who struggles on defense. Even with Şengün’s strong play, the Rockets were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs in seven games by the Golden State Warriors.
If Queen can develop a reliable outside shot and play next to Clingan—who could cover for some of his defensive weaknesses—he could be a long-term fit in Portland. In the short term, Queen’s skill set likely means he’ll start as a backup if the Blazers draft him.
The 2025 NBA Draft will be an important chance for the Blazers to build on their progress. With the No. 11 pick, taking a shot at Derik Queen might just give them the offensive boost they’re looking for.
