### New Orleans Pelicans Appoint Joe Dumars as Executive VP of Basketball Operations Following Griffin's Dismissal The New Orleans Pelicans have made a significant change in their front office by hiring Joe Dumars, a Hall of Famer and former NBA champion, as their new executive vice president of basketball operations. This decision comes on the heels of the firing of David Griffin, who was let go after the team failed to qualify for the playoffs for the fourth time in six seasons. Dumars, who has a storied history in the NBA both as a player and an executive, is expected to bring a fresh perspective and leadership to a franchise that has struggled in recent years. His appointment is seen as a pivotal move to revitalize the team's fortunes and build a competitive roster around star player Zion Williamson [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6280948/2025/04/16/joe-dumars-pelicans-nba-president-of-basketball-ops][https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/pelicans-hire-joe-dumars-hall-of-famer-takes-over-new-orleans-front-office-after-david-griffin-firing]. ### Structure of the Pelicans' Leadership Transition 1. **Firing of David Griffin**: - Griffin was dismissed after a disappointing season where the Pelicans finished with a 21-61 record, marking another missed playoff opportunity [https://www.startribune.com/pelicans-fire-basketball-operations-chief-david-griffin-after-an-injury-plagued-21-61-season/601330776]. 2. **Hiring of Joe Dumars**: - Dumars has been appointed to replace Griffin, bringing extensive experience from his time as a player and executive, including a championship run with the Detroit Pistons [https://www.espn.co.uk/nba/story/_/id/44700278/pelicans-officially-hire-joe-dumars-executive-vice-president]. 3. **Future Plans**: - Dumars is expected to meet with head coach Willie Green and general manager Bryson Graham to discuss the team's direction and potential roster changes, particularly concerning Zion Williamson's future [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/new_pelicans_vp_of_basketball_operations_joe_dumars_to_meet_with_willie_green_gm/s1_17038_42060721]. ### Supporting Evidence of Dumars' Qualifications and Expectations - **Dumars' Background**: - A two-time NBA champion and Finals MVP, Dumars has a proven track record both on the court and in executive roles, having served as the general manager of the Pistons during their successful years [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/nba/article-14616493/Joe-Dumars-Bad-Boys-Detroit-Pistons-New-Orleans-Pelicans.html]. - **Owner's Confidence**: - Pelicans owner Gayle Benson expressed strong confidence in Dumars, stating that his achievements and leadership qualities will significantly impact the organization [https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/pelicans-hire-joe-dumars-hall-of-famer-takes-over-new-orleans-front-office-after-david-griffin-firing]. - **Immediate Challenges**: - Dumars faces critical decisions regarding the coaching staff and potential trades, particularly concerning the future of star player Zion Williamson, which will be crucial for the team's rebuilding efforts [https://www.nola.com/sports/pelicans/pelicans-reportedly-finalizing-joe-dumars-deal/article_561afb0a-22e0-41d1-a7ba-6e5691061c8a.html]. ### Conclusion: A New Era for the Pelicans In summary, the New Orleans Pelicans are entering a new chapter with the hiring of Joe Dumars as their executive vice president of basketball operations. This transition follows the dismissal of David Griffin, who could not lead the team to success. Dumars' extensive experience and past successes in the NBA position him as a strong candidate to revitalize the franchise. 1. **Leadership Change**: The Pelicans have replaced Griffin with Dumars to bring a new vision to the team. 2. **Dumars' Credentials**: His history as a player and executive provides a solid foundation for his new role. 3. **Future Direction**: Key decisions regarding the coaching staff and player trades will be critical in shaping the team's future. The Pelicans are hopeful that Dumars can steer the franchise towards a more successful trajectory, aiming for playoff contention and beyond [https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44683498/sources-joe-dumars-finalizing-deal-pelicans-president][https://www.wwltv.com/article/news/local/sports-nba-pelicans-joe-dumars-pelicans-president-deal-david-griffin-gayle-benson/289-75990206-7d0e-4dcd-af18-d531b6ef4983].