New Orleans Pelicans: 5 candidates to replace Dell Demps as GM

METAIRIE, LA - JULY 12: Dell Demps, general manager of the New Orleans Pelicans introduces Jrue Holiday, acquired in a trade on July 12, 2013 at the New Orleans Pelicans practice facility in Metairie, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2013 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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2. David Griffin

One of NBA Twitter’s darling executives, David Griffin would be a fascinating pick for the Pelicans. Often overshadowed by the “LeBron James as GM” meme and Dan Gilbert’s… Dan Gilberting, Griffin was an occasional miracle-worker with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Griffin has been rumored to be a target of the Pelicans in the aftermath of Demps’ dismissal, but after battling Gilbert with the Cavs, he’s sure to demand total control of decision-making in the front office. Loomis and Benson have tended to prefer involvement in decisions, and that may be a nonstarter for Griffin.

Two names to quickly emerge in league circles as likely targets in the Pelicans’ GM search — albeit two candidates who have both been selective in the extreme in considering offers — are former Cavs and Suns GM David Griffin and longtime Celtics executive Mike Zarren
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) February 15, 2019

Much like Zarren, Griffin has not been in any hurry to jump on an available job, and he’s unlikely to compromise on whatever requirements he may have. That’s especially true when the post-Davis future of the Pelicans remains murky, so long-term commitment to his security and unilaterality of action may be vital to persuade him.

However, should the Pelicans be willing to do what it takes, David Griffin may be a star candidate they could be able to hire.

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