Pelicans fire David Griffin, HOFer Dumars a top target

The New Orleans Pelicans have fired Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin, the team confirmed via statement Monday.

New Orleans finished the season 21-61, the team’s worst record in an 82-game season since the 2004-2005 team went 18-64.

“After considerable thought and evaluation, I have decided to relieve David Griffin of his duties as executive vice president of basketball operations,” Pelicans owner Gayle Benson said in a statement. “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. 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. We wish David and his wife, Meredith, and their family all the best moving forward.”

According to a report from ESPN’s Shams Charania, Hall of Famer Joe Dumars is considered the frontrunner to take over the top executive position with the franchise. Dumars currently works as a top executive with the NBA.

Hall of Famer Joe Dumars is a serious frontrunner to become the lead basketball executive with the New Orleans Pelicans, sources tell ESPN. The 2003 exec of the year and 2004 championship exec with the Pistons is a Louisiana native. Dumars is currently heading NBA basketball ops. pic.twitter.com/Du0Be1LrFS

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 14, 2025

Griffin was in his sixth season with the organization. The Pelicans made two playoff appearances during that time, failing to advance past the first round.

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This story was last updated on April 14 at 1:42 P.M.