The New Orleans Pelicans have parted ways with coach Willie Green following a challenging start to the season, which saw the team record a dismal 2-10. According to sources, Green’s tenure was significantly impacted by an unfortunate 0-6 beginning and injuries to key players, including Zion Williamson, who has played only five games this season due to a recurring hamstring injury. This marks the fourth straight season Williamson has faced this issue.
The Pelicans’ performance has been historically poor, as they became the first team in NBA history to lose three of their first six games by at least 30 points. Additionally, they allowed at least 120 points in five consecutive games to start the season, a first for the franchise, as noted by ESPN Research. New Orleans is currently on a four-game losing streak, which included a recent 118-104 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on November 10, 2023.
Transition to Interim Leadership
Following Green’s departure, assistant coach James Borrego will step in as the interim coach. Borrego, who previously served as head coach for the Charlotte Hornets, was a finalist for coaching positions with the Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2024. During the offseason, he also received offers for lead assistant roles from the New York Knicks and the Denver Nuggets, but ultimately chose to remain with the Pelicans.
Green’s time with the Pelicans spanned five seasons, during which he compiled a record of 150 wins and 190 losses. His leadership led to postseason appearances in both the 2021-22 and 2023-24 seasons, yet the current struggles have prompted the organization to seek a new direction.
As the Pelicans look to turn their season around, the focus will now shift to Borrego and how he can rejuvenate a team that has faced significant adversity early in the campaign. The upcoming games will be critical in determining the future trajectory of the franchise as they strive to improve their standings in the competitive NBA landscape.
