David Griffin’s tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans faces scrutiny as the team grapples with its worst season in two decades. Before taking over the franchise in 2019, Griffin has endured endless struggles. He had some critically important no-brainers, like drafting Zion Williamson to get the consensus top overall prospect. The Pelicans have failed to translate their potential into success, with a disheartening record of 21-61 this season and no playoff appearances during Griffin’s leadership.
Griffin had only recently returned to the NBA as executive vice president of basketball operations when the Pelicans won that year’s NBA draft lottery. This thrilling playoff run left fans with lofty hopes for the burgeoning sports franchise. Four years ago, that started with the decision to hire Willie Green as head coach. From the start his aim appeared to be creating a deep and competitive team around Williamson and the other stars. Regardless, through these moves, the Pelicans have compiled a meager 209-263 W/L record under Griffin’s leadership.
It’s been an unfortunate season this year. On Sunday, our seventh consecutive L resounding as ever, cementing it as one of our worst seasons in franchise history. As it stands, the Pelicans have the second-worst record in franchise history. During Griffin’s tenure, they have not advanced past the first round of the playoffs. That’s not to say injuries haven’t taken their toll on the team. Fellow starters Williamson (hamstring strain), Murray (illness), and Jones (illness) were out. The absence of Williamson in particular really hobbled the Pelicans.
Green weighed in on the importance of assessing the franchise’s development as a whole.
“I think that’s important. You try to look at the body of work,” – Willie Green
Though his season has certainly had its challenges, Green is thankful for where he’s at, knowing full well the rarity of his appointment.
“I didn’t give myself this job. I had to be chosen for this position, and I’m grateful,” – Willie Green
Griffin’s legislative future hangs in the balance as he sails these stormy seas. Under his management, the team never made a playoff appearance. As the roster remains in a state of flux and not fully coming together under Green’s stewardship, the concerns surrounding the franchise’s future are mounting.
Green noted, “I haven’t had any discussions, any talks yet,” regarding future plans or evaluations for Griffin, which underscores the ambiguity surrounding leadership decisions moving forward.
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