Pelicans miss playoffs, fire VP David Griffin

The New Orleans Pelicans fired executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin on Monday after a 61-loss season.

Owner Gayle Benson made the announcement but did not address the future of head coach Willie Green, who was hired by Griffin in 2021. Green has a 148-180 record.

Griffin had been in charge of the Pelicans since April 17, 2019. The franchise posted a record of 209-263 with just two playoff appearances during his tenure.

"This was a difficult decision, but one that I feel is necessary at this time to bring a fresh approach to our front office and build a culture that will deliver sustainable success, on and off the court," Benson said. "I am committed to hiring the right person to lead our basketball operations department and deliver an NBA Championship to our city. That is what our fans deserve. I am truly appreciative of David for his leadership and many contributions to the Pelicans organization and the New Orleans community over the last six years. "

Griffin, 51, was the architect of the Cleveland Cavaliers' 2015-16 NBA championship team and arrived in New Orleans with great hopes.

His first draft pick was Zion Williamson, taken No. 1 overall in 2019. Griffin traded Anthony Davis -- who demanded a trade -- to the Los Angeles Lakers for Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, Lonzo Ball and three first-round picks.

Williamson has been oft-injured during his career, playing in 214 games and missing 268 because of a variety of injuries, and his lack of availability has kept the Pelicans from gaining much momentum with him being in and out of the lineup.

Under Griffin, the Pelicans made the playoffs following the 2021-22 and 2023-24 seasons. Williamson missed that first season entirely due to a right foot injury and played 70 games in the other.

--Field Level Media