Pelicans Face Dilemma as Dumars Backs Struggling Coach Green
The New Orleans Pelicans find themselves at a crossroads, with ownership placing the responsibility firmly on the shoulders of president of basketball operations Joe Dumars regarding the future of head coach Willie Green. As the team languishes at the bottom of the Western Conference with a dismal 2-10 record, speculation has been rampant on social media about Green’s job security. Yet, Dumars has so far refrained from making a decisive move, leaving fans perplexed and frustrated.
A Frustrating Start to the Season
The Pelicans’ poor performance has led to widespread dissatisfaction among the fanbase, many of whom feel that Green has overstayed his welcome. Despite the mounting pressure, Dumars appears to remain steadfast in his support for the fifth-year head coach. This loyalty raises questions, especially since Dumars traded away a 2026 first-round pick, a clear signal that he believes this roster has the potential to compete this season. However, the current results suggest otherwise, indicating that Green may not be maximizing the talent at his disposal.
Borrego: The Ideal Replacement
One of the most confounding aspects of the situation is that the Pelicans already have a strong candidate for head coach within their ranks: associate head coach James Borrego. Now in his third season with the organization, Borrego is familiar with the team’s dynamics and could facilitate a seamless transition should the franchise decide to part ways with Green. His coaching acumen has not gone unnoticed; he has garnered significant interest from other teams seeking head coaches, previously being a finalist for positions including the Knicks’ opening just this offseason.
Borrego’s track record as head coach of the Charlotte Hornets speaks for itself. He led the team to its best finishes in recent years, compiling a 138-163 record and guiding them to consecutive Play-In tournaments—an achievement that has eluded the franchise since his departure. His ability to harness the potential of his players and create dynamic offensive schemes could be exactly what the Pelicans need to thrive.
A Need for Creative Offense
The Pelicans boast an impressive roster featuring talents like Zion Williamson and Derik Queen, alongside promising young guard Jeremiah Fears. However, these players present unique challenges in terms of fit, particularly Fears, who, at just 19, will inevitably experience growing pains as a starting point guard. To unlock their true potential, the Pelicans require a coach capable of devising creative offensive strategies that can accommodate these diverse skill sets.
Green’s struggles in this area have become apparent, and it may be time for the organization to explore whether Borrego can deliver the offensive innovation that has eluded them thus far. As the Pelicans navigate this tumultuous season, the question remains: will Dumars finally make the change that many fans are clamoring for, or will he continue to stand by Green in the face of mounting adversity?
