The Struggling Pelicans Need a New Head Coach

Multiple high-profile head coaches were recently let go by their respective teams, providing a unique opportunity for a young Pelicans squad. Meanwhile, Willie Green has not reassured fans that he is the man for the job in New Orleans.

This begs the question: Who should the Pelicans pursue as their next head coach?

Michael Malone

Malone was inexplicably fired from the Denver Nuggets, just two years after they won the NBA Finals. Now a free agent, he is an intriguing option for the Pelicans.

Malone recorded 471 wins and 327 losses during his ten seasons as the Nuggets’ head coach, leading them to the playoffs six times. Under his leadership, the Nuggets evolved from a middling franchise into a dominant powerhouse in the highly competitive Western Conference. 

Malone emphasizes a team-first approach and values defense above all else. He is an experienced coach who praises accountability and teamwork. This mindset could aid Zion Williamson‘s development, as he often seems complacent.

However, he is seen as an “old school” coach. Furthermore, he doesn’t give younger players playing time and has tight rotations. He and Green share this trait, and this similarity may not sit well with fans.

It is unlikely that the Pelicans go in this direction, but it would be intriguing if they do, as it would breathe new life into an organization where morale is the lowest it has ever been.

Taylor Jenkins

Jenkins is now a free agent after being fired from the Memphis Grizzlies in another shocking late-season move.

He has a career record of 250 wins and 214 losses as a head coach, taking the Grizzlies to the playoffs three times during his tenure.

Jenkins is seen as an offensive mastermind throughout the league. His innovative offensive schemes and emphasis on player development make him a good option.

The Grizzlies are like the Pels in the sense that they are both young teams with players who are still developing. Jenkins got the most out of his young players, while Willie Green seems to hold his younger players back.

While his relationship with the players and front office deteriorated toward the end of his tenure in Memphis, he has proven to be an above-average coach and would be a clear upgrade over Willie Green.

Mike Brown

Brown has seen it all in his long career in the NBA.

He coached a LeBron James-led Cavs team, making the playoffs all five of his seasons in Cleveland. He was also an assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors amid their legendary dynasty run.

Brown then became the head coach for the Sacramento Kings, where he had some success. He took them to the playoffs twice during his three-year stint as their head coach.

Brown’s ability to turn the Kings into a competitive one in such a short time reflects his coaching prowess.

However, things came to a crashing halt in Sacramento. After two and a half seasons, the Kings fired Brown.

Nobody saw this coming, especially considering he signed a multi-year extension with the Kings less than a year before his departure. His situation with the Kings reflects the volatility of coaching jobs in today’s NBA.

Brown would be a good fit in New Orleans. His emphasis on teamwork and accountability is much needed for an organization that is in limbo. His experience, combined with his high energy, could help the Pelicans get their mojo back.

What’s Next?

The Pelicans are at a crossroads, and the hiring of Joe Dumars only adds to the level of uncertainty that they are facing right now. They have a talented but unproven roster, and they desperately need a new voice in the locker room to help them reach their full potential.

Will Dumars want to hand-pick a head coach, or will he stick with Green?

If he decides on the latter option, Taylor Jenkins will be the ideal coach for the Pelicans. His innovative offensive mind and ability to maximize young players make him the most obvious choice for an organization that is still trying to find its identity.

Whatever the Pelicans decide to do with their head coaching position, one thing remains clear: they need to start winning.