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Pelicans Fire David Griffin After Franchise-Worst Season Since 2005

The New Orleans Pelicans dismissed their basketball operations chief following a 21-61 season, initiating a rebuild with questions surrounding head coach Willie Green and Zion Williamson'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 was fired as executive vice president of basketball operations after six seasons marked by inconsistent results and persistent injuries to key players.
  • The Pelicans finished the 2024-25 season with a 21-61 record, their second-worst in franchise history, and missed the playoffs for the fourth time under Griffin's tenure.
  • Owner Gayle Benson emphasized the need for a fresh approach and committed to hiring new leadership to rebuild the team and pursue an NBA Championship.
  • Head coach Willie Green's future remains uncertain as his role will likely be determined by Griffin's replacement, with no immediate decisions announced.
  • Zion Williamson's ongoing injury struggles and limited availability have been central to the team's challenges, raising questions about the roster's long-term viability.