Joe Dumars is now the lead executive for the New Orleans Pelicans. This change follows the dismissal of David Griffin, who had held the position since 2019. However, sources indicate that this executive change will not lead to a coaching change. Reports suggest that Pelicans coach Willie Green has the backing of team ownership and is expected to return for the next season, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype and Shamit Dua of In The N.O.
Green became the coach in New Orleans in 2021, after Stan Van Gundy`s single season with the team. His tenure has faced challenges, and team ownership previously prevented Griffin from firing Green earlier this season, as reported by HoopsHype and In The N.O.
James Borrego, who was Green`s main assistant coach for the past two years and coached the Charlotte Hornets from 2018 to 2022, was considered a likely replacement if Griffin had been fired during the season, according to HoopsHype. Borrego was a candidate for head-coaching positions with the Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers last offseason. HoopsHype also suggests he is expected to be considered for the Phoenix Suns job, which became available after Mike Budenholzer was recently fired.
ESPN`s Shams Charania reported that Dumars will soon engage with the current basketball staff, including Green and general manager Bryson Graham. ESPN also states that Dumars is expected to have direct conversations with star forward Zion Williamson about his future direction with the team. Williamson only played in 30 games this past season.
If Green does indeed return, the primary question for the Pelicans` offseason will be Dumars` plans for the team roster. This begins with Williamson, who will be 25 in July and has been the central figure of the franchise since being drafted as the No. 1 pick in 2019. Williamson is a two-time All-Star and possesses All-NBA talent when healthy. However, his history of injuries with the Pelicans impacts his potential trade value.
Jasper Hawthorne