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[Saba Sports News] The New Orleans Pelicans wrapped up one of their worst seasons in over a decade with a seventh straight loss on Sunday, and now they’re initiating a major shake-up to kickstart a rebuild.
On Monday, the team announced the firing of executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin.
Team owner Gayle Benson called it a “difficult decision” but said it was necessary to “bring a fresh approach to our front office and build a culture that will deliver sustainable success, on and off the court.”
Griffin had been at the helm of basketball operations for six seasons, joining the Pelicans in 2019—the same year they selected Zion Williamson with the No. 1 overall pick. Despite high hopes, injuries and inconsistent availability from Williamson derailed the franchise’s momentum.
Griffin, who previously helped construct the Cleveland Cavaliers’ 2016 championship roster, reportedly clashed with former head coach Stan Van Gundy and others during his tenure in New Orleans.
After a 49-33 campaign last year, the Pelicans plummeted to a 21-61 finish this season and missed the playoffs. They had just two postseason appearances under Griffin—both first-round exits, in 2022 and 2023.