Struggling Pelicans make decision on HC Willie Green

The New Orleans Pelicans have gotten off to a brutal start to the 2025-26 season, and they are now making a significant change.

The Pelicans have fired head coach Willie Green, according to NBA reporter Chris Haynes. The decision comes after New Orleans lost 118-104 to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night to fall to 2-10 on the season.

Green was in his fifth season with the Pelicans. He led the team to the playoffs in his first year in 2021-22 and again in 2023-24. New Orleans lost in the first round both times.

Pelicans have been trending in the wrong direction

Fans were optimistic about the future for the Pelicans after the team went 49-33 two seasons ago. They were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs, but it looked like Green's team had something to build off of.

New Orleans then won just 21 games last season. Zion Williamson battled injuries once again and played in just 30 games, which was a significant factor. The former No. 1 overall pick has missed time again this season with a hamstring injury, but the Pelicans have chosen not to give Green then benefit of the doubt.

Green was an assistant with the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors before the Pelicans hired him in 2021. He won an NBA title as an assistant in Golden State. The 44-year-old is respected across the league, and there were plenty of factors outside of his control that led to the struggles in New Orleans.

While there had been reports that players had been frustrated with Green, a fresh start elsewhere might be good for the coach.