The New Orleans Pelicans have found themselves in an early-season crisis. After Sunday’s loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the team sits at 0-6; a start many are linking to the front office’s controversial decision to trade their 2026 first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks for rookie Derik Queen.
Queen was the 13th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and was expected to help Zion Williamson keep the Pelicans competitive in the Western Conference. With Brandon Ingram now suiting up for the Toronto Raptors, the absence of another star also affected New Orleans.
How Did Fans React to the Pelicans’ Nightmare Opening?
Fans on social media had a lot to say regarding New Orleans’ poor start to the season. Here’s what some said on X:
“They might go 0-82,” one fan said.
they might go 0-82 pic.twitter.com/b3Rdli4XOh
— ProphetX (@PlayProphetX) November 3, 2025
“They boutta hand the Hawks a top 3 pick I’m sick,” another fan said.
They boutta hand the Hawks a top 3 pick I’m sick
— Knicks Union 🗽 (@knicks_union) November 3, 2025
“Chemistry looks off too much iso, no rhythm, and zero bench spark. something’s up,” one fan observed.
chemistry looks off too much iso, no rhythm, and zero bench spark. something’s up.
— Calvin | Kiwi (@Kiwiuh) November 3, 2025
“Washington Wizards would be proud,” another fan said.
Washington wizards would be proud
— Charles (@crypteec) November 3, 2025
“You can’t have a losing culture and then expect to change just cause Zion is healthy,” one fan pointed out.
You can’t have a losing culture and then expected to change just cause Zion is healthy
— Shaquille Oatmeal 🥣 (@mcchulos) November 3, 2025
“Hawks getting the easiest top 3 pick ever,” another fan said.
Hawks getting the easiest top 3 pick ever
— CJ🥚 (@CujoLima) November 3, 2025
Thunder Destroy Pelicans as they Continue their Undefeated Streak
The New Orleans Pelicans can’t seem to catch a break after the Oklahoma City Thunder annihilated them, 137-106. Despite Zion Williamson’s efforts to try to keep the game within reach for the Pelicans, the defending NBA champions were too much to handle.
Leading the Thunder to victory was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The reigning MVP delivered another superb performance, recording 30 points, seven assists, and one steal. It’s also worth noting that Gilgeous-Alexander was perfect from the free-throw line, making all 13 of his attempts.
As for Williamson, he did all that he could to try and carry New Orleans. Williamson put up 20 points, nine rebounds, six assists and one steal. Unfortunately for the Pelicans, it wasn’t enough to match Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance.
The Pelicans are set to face off against the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday. Given how the Hornets have won only two out of the last five games, this could be the Pelicans’ opportunity to gain their first win of the season.