The New Orleans Pelicans are kicking off significant change a day after the completion of their worst season more than a decade.
That process began Monday with the team announcing it was firing Executive Vice President David Griffin after 6 years at the helm of the team. The Pelicans had improved their win total in three consecutive seasons prior to 2024-'25, when a slew of injuries knocked things off track and the team scuffled to a 21-61, the fourth-worst record in the league.
“After considerable thought and evaluation, I have decided to relieve David Griffin of his duties as executive vice president of basketball operations,” team owner Gayle Benson said in a news release. “This was a difficult decision, but one that I feel is necessary at this time to bring a fresh approach to our front office and build a culture that will deliver sustainable success, on and off the court."
The Pelicans went 209-263 under Griffin's leadership, landing in the play-in tournament in each of the previous three seasons. The team's 21 wins this past season were the fewest since the team rebranded to the Pelicans in 2013, and are the fewest by a New Orleans NBA franchise since the Hornets' 21-45 in the lockout-shortened 2011-'12 season.
Griffin's tenure with the Pelicans was never particularly simple, joining the team in 2019 as they were knee-deep in the saga of Anthony Davis' trade demand. They ultimately dealt him to the L.A. Lakers and landed the No. 1 pick, which they used to select Zion Williamson, forming a core of Duke superstars with him and Brandon Ingram. That duo impressed when they were on the court together, but that time was limited due to a series of injuries and other issues.
This past season saw Ingram traded to the Raptors and Williamson limited to just 30 games. Forward Herb Jones battled a shoulder injury and appeared in just 20 games, while the biggest acquisition of the offseason in PG Dejounte Murray broke his hand in the season-opener before battling back, then had his season end with a torn Achilles after 31 games.
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"I am committed to hiring the right person to lead our basketball operations department and deliver an NBA Championship to our city. That is what our fans deserve," Benson continued. "I am truly appreciative of David for his leadership and many contributions to the Pelicans organization and the New Orleans community over the last six years. We wish David and his wife, Meredith, and their family all the best moving forward.”
Griffin inherited Alvin Gentry as head coach, who lasted one final season before being fired. The Pelicans then hired Stan Van Gundy, who lasted just one season that was marred by the Coronavirus pandemic. Willie Green was brought in the following season and was popular among the players, leading New Orleans to improved win totals in each of his first three seasons, though playoff success was limited to a pair of first-round exits after working through the play-in tournament.
The next question for the Pelicans will be just how deep the cuts run, and whether a change at head coach is next. The team could also look at additional front office staff, including GM Bryson Graham, who is in his first season with the team. As of now Green is still in place as the team begins its search for a new lead executive.
It's the second major firing for the Saints in a matter of months, with Benson also opting to fire head coach Dennis Allen midway through the 2024 season.
Check back for updates.