The New Orleans Pelicans announced Monday morning that they have parted ways with David Griffin, who served as the Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations since 2019.
Pelicans Governor Gayle Benson released an official statement regarding the decision:
“After careful consideration and thorough evaluation, I have made the difficult decision to relieve David Griffin of his duties. While this was not an easy choice, I believe a new direction is necessary to instill a fresh perspective in our front office and establish a culture focused on long-term success—both on and off the court.”
Benson emphasized the organization’s commitment to championship aspirations:
“We are determined to find the right leader to take charge of basketball operations and deliver an NBA title to New Orleans. Our fans deserve nothing less. I am sincerely grateful for David’s leadership and his many contributions to the Pelicans and the greater New Orleans community over the past six years. We wish David, his wife Meredith, and their family continued success.”
Griffin, 52, was hired in 2019 to guide the franchise’s rebuild and was responsible for several pivotal moves, including the blockbuster trade of Anthony Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers and the selection of Zion Williamson as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.
Under Griffin’s leadership, the Pelicans posted a record of 209-263, with only two winning seasons and two playoff appearances—both of which ended without advancing past the first round. The 2024-25 season proved especially disappointing, as the team finished 21-61, marking the second-worst record in franchise history.
The Pelicans now face a critical transitional period. Key decisions loom regarding the future of Zion Williamson, and the roster is set to be tested with multiple injuries: Dejounte Murray is not expected to be ready for the start of the 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury, while Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III are both recovering from shoulder surgeries.
As the organization begins the search for a new front office leader, all eyes will be on New Orleans to see how they navigate this pivotal offseason and reshape their path toward sustained competitiveness in the NBA.
