The New Orleans Pelicans appear to be shifting their front office strategy in the wake of recent struggles, and their search for new leadership might bring a familiar face back into an executive role.
Following David Griffin’s departure, the organization seems poised to make a significant change at the top of their basketball operations department—one that could reshape their future direction.
Reports are emerging that NBA Hall of Famer Joe Dumars has emerged as the leading candidate for the position of Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations with the Pelicans.
“BREAKING: Hall of Famer Joe Dumars is a serious frontrunner to become the lead basketball executive with the New Orleans Pelicans, per @ShamsCharania. The Pelicans and Dumars are expected to engage in conversations to finalize a deal by the end of the week,” Yahoo Sports shared on X.
BREAKING: Hall of Famer Joe Dumars is a serious frontrunner to become the lead basketball executive with the New Orleans Pelicans, per @ShamsCharania.
The Pelicans and Dumars are expected to engage in conversations to finalize a deal by the end of the week. pic.twitter.com/2YPqjztX6w
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 14, 2025
Dumars brings with him a wealth of executive experience that could prove invaluable to the struggling franchise.
During his tenure as President of Basketball Operations for the Detroit Pistons from 2000 to 2014, he architected the team’s incredible run that included an NBA championship in 2004 and six consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances.
His stellar front office work earned him Executive of the Year honors in 2003.
Since his time with the Pistons, Dumars has continued building his executive resume. He served as Chief Strategy Officer for the Sacramento Kings before taking on a broader role with the NBA itself in 2022.
As Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations for the league, he oversaw crucial aspects including player discipline and maintaining game integrity.
The challenge awaiting Dumars in New Orleans would be substantial.
The Pelicans finished last season with a dismal 21-61 record, the second-worst mark in franchise history. Injuries have consistently derailed their progress, with star player Zion Williamson limited to just 30 games last season due to health issues.
Should Dumars accept the position, his immediate priorities would likely include evaluating head coach Willie Green’s future and assessing a roster still in recovery mode, with several key players working their way back from surgeries.
