New Orleans Pelicans Fire Exec David Griffin

The New Orleans Pelicans have fired Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin, the organization announced on Monday.

Here’s an excerpt from Pelicans Governor Gayle Benson’s statement announcing the news:

“After considerable thought and evaluation, I have decided to relieve David Griffin of his duties as executive vice president of basketball operations. 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.”

The Pelicans hired Griffin in April 2019. He amassed a record of 209-263 over the last six seasons with the franchise. The tenure included two playoff appearances, but was often hampered by injuries. The Pelicans closed out the current season with a 21-61 record, placing them in the No. 14 spot in the Western Conference standings.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Hall of Famer Joe Dumars, currently the executive vice president and head of basketball operations for the NBA, is a “serious frontrunner” to become New Orleans’ next lead basketball executive.

The Pelicans and Dumars are expected to engage in conversations to finalize a deal by the end of the week, sources tell ESPN.