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Pelicans Fire David Griffin After Disastrous 21-61 Season

The move signals a major organizational shift as New Orleans prepares for a rebuild with uncertainty surrounding head coach Willie Green's future.

Sep 26, 2022; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans vice president of basketball operations David Griffin during a press conference at the New Orleans Pelicans Media Day from the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports/ File Photo
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New Orleans Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin watches from the stands with his wife Meredith Hale Griffin in the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Oklahoma City Thunder in New Orleans, Sunday, April 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

Overview

  • David Griffin, the Pelicans' executive vice president of basketball operations, was dismissed after six seasons marked by limited success and persistent injuries to key players.
  • The Pelicans concluded the 2024-25 season with a 21-61 record, their second-worst in franchise history, and missed the playoffs for the fourth time in Griffin's tenure.
  • Griffin's tenure included drafting Zion Williamson and trading Anthony Davis, but injuries and inconsistent performance hindered the team's progress.
  • Team owner Gayle Benson emphasized the need for a fresh approach to leadership, aiming to build a sustainable culture and eventually deliver an NBA Championship.
  • The status of head coach Willie Green remains uncertain, with decisions about his future expected to be made by Griffin's successor.