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New Orleans Looks to Reset After Injury-Riddled Season and Front Office Shake-Up
The New Orleans Pelicans have dismissed Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin, ending a six-year run defined by missed opportunities, persistent injuries, and underwhelming results. The decision comes on the heels of a 21-61 season—Griffin’s worst since joining the franchise in 2019.
Team owner Gayle Benson thanked Griffin for his service but made it clear the organization is looking for a new direction. “It’s time for a change that aligns with our long-term goals,” Benson said in a statement.
A Tenure That Never Took Flight
Griffin’s time in New Orleans began with promise, most notably the blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Lakers in exchange for a package including Brandon Ingram, Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, and multiple first-round picks. The Pelicans then struck gold with the No. 1 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, selecting Zion Williamson.
But the optimism faded quickly. Williamson has appeared in just 45% of possible games since being drafted, with injuries keeping him sidelined during both of the team’s playoff runs in 2022 and 2024. Griffin’s six-season record stands at 209-263, with only two playoff wins to show for it.
This season’s collapse was accelerated by a brutal wave of injuries. Dejounte Murray broke his hand in the season opener, and Ingram was later shipped to Toronto. Williamson, Trey Murphy III, Herbert Jones, and Jose Alvarado all missed significant time, while CJ McCollum was eventually shut down for the year. The result: a 4th-worst finish in the NBA standings and a 12.5% chance at the top pick in June’s draft.
Joe Dumars Emerging as Front-Runner
Sources say Hall of Famer and longtime executive Joe Dumars is the leading candidate to replace Griffin. Talks between Dumars and the Pelicans are reportedly expected to wrap by the end of the week.
Dumars brings a proven track record. As the architect of the 2004 NBA champion Detroit Pistons, he earned Executive of the Year honors in 2003 and led the franchise to six straight Eastern Conference Finals. A Shreveport native, Dumars currently serves as the NBA’s executive vice president and head of basketball operations.
What’s Next for New Orleans?
Head coach Willie Green is expected to stay on—for now. But with a front office overhaul underway and a potentially high lottery pick in play, big changes could be coming to the roster and beyond. The organization is also investing in off-court improvements, including fan experience upgrades and possible renovations to the Smoothie King Center.
The pressure is on. After years of waiting for their young core to deliver, the Pelicans are finally signaling a desire to move forward—and fast.
