What are the implications for the Pelicans’ hugely disappointing season? Only owner Gayle Benson knows that answer, Rod Walker of NOLA.com writes.
The futures of top exec David Griffin and head coach Willie Green hang in the balance after the Pelicans’ second-worst season in franchise history. Griffin has held his job for six seasons, while Green is wrapping up his fourth. The way the offseason plays out could also determine whether they retain franchise player Zion Williamson and other key pieces.
The Pelicans lost four games by at least 40 points and had three losing streaks of at least nine games.
Here’s more on the Pelicans:
- The team is more likely to make moves with an eye toward playoff contention, rather than a reset, Spotrac contributor Keith Smith opines in his offseason preview. The Pelicans have 12 players under contract next season, including Antonio Reeves‘ non-guaranteed deal. They’ll also have a high lottery pick to add to their talent pool.
- The Athletic’s Will Guillory believes abrupt changes are necessary for a team to grow. They can’t afford to run it back with Griffin, Green and Williamson all remaining in the organization, in his estimation. Moving on with a new front office leader and head coach might be the best course of action in order to catch up with the contenders in the West.
- They finished with a 21-61 record after their loss to Oklahoma City on Sunday. New Orleans completed its season on a seven-game losing streak and will be in the No. 4 spot entering the draft lottery.