Pelicans dismiss top exec David Griffin after 6 seasons

The New Orleans Pelicans fired executive vice president David Griffin after six seasons, the team announced Monday.

"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," Pelicans governor Gayle Benson said in a statement.

NBA Hall of Famer Joe Dumars is a front-runner to replace Griffin, sources told ESPN's Shams Charania. Dumars was the 2003 Executive of the Year and led the Detroit Pistons to the 2004 NBA title.

Dumars currently serves as executive vice president and head of basketball operations for the NBA. The Pelicans and Dumars are expected to engage in talks to finalize a deal by the end of the week, Charania reports, citing sources.

Under Griffin's leadership, the Pelicans compiled a 209-263 overall record and finished 2024-25 ranked 27th in the NBA at 21-61.

New Orleans made the postseason in 2022 and 2024 during Griffin's tenure but lost in the first round both times.

While Griffin helped build a strong roster entering this season, a wave of injuries derailed the Pelicans' hopes of competing. Zion Williamson, Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III, and Dejounte Murray all missed significant time.

Head coach Willie Green remains in place as New Orleans begins its search for a new executive to oversee basketball operations. Whoever the Pelicans hire to replace Griffin will have a say in Green's future with the franchise, sources told The Athletic's Will Guillory.

Griffin came to New Orleans with lots of hype after leading the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2010-17. He played a pivotal role in bringing LeBron James back to Cleveland and was at the helm of the Cavs for their NBA championship in 2016.