The New Orleans Pelicans have terminated the contract of head coach Willie Green following a disappointing start to the season, with the team’s record standing at 2-10. This decision comes after a challenging beginning, highlighted by an alarming 0-6 record and significant injuries to key players, notably Zion Williamson, who has only participated in five games due to a recurring hamstring injury.
Green’s tenure has been marked by struggles, including the Pelicans becoming the first team in NBA history to lose three of their first six games by at least 30 points. Additionally, the franchise set a record by allowing at least 120 points in five consecutive games at the start of a season, according to ESPN Research. The team’s current losing streak extends to four games, with their latest defeat occurring on November 10, 2023, against the Los Angeles Lakers, by a score of 118-104.
James Borrego Steps In as Interim Coach
In the wake of Green’s departure, assistant coach James Borrego is set to take over as the interim head coach. Borrego, who previously coached the Charlotte Hornets, had been a candidate for head coaching positions with both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2024. Additionally, he received offers for lead assistant roles from the New York Knicks and Denver Nuggets during the off-season but chose to remain with the Pelicans.
Green finishes his tenure with a coaching record of 150-190, which includes playoff appearances in the 2021-22 and 2023-24 seasons. His firing reflects the high expectations placed on the Pelicans, particularly given their roster’s potential when healthy.
The Pelicans’ leadership will now look to Borrego to stabilize the team and revive their season. As the organization navigates this transition, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Borrego can turn around the team’s fortunes.
