Alvin Gentry Fired as Head Coach for the Pelicans

Alvin Gentry was dismissed as the head coach for the New Orleans Pelicans a year earlier than his contract. Gentry has coached five underwhelming seasons with the Pelicans.

For much of Gentry’s coaching, the Pelicans were plagued with injuries. Anthony Davis had knee and shoulder injuries in 2016. In 2018, DeMarcus Cousins suffered a torn achilles. Not to mention Zion Williams’ knee injury. Furthermore, Davis demanded a trade in 2019. 

The Pelicans are a young team with eight players under the age of 23. Furthermore, first round draft pick Zion Williamson is projected to be a future superstar in the NBA. Still, the Pelicans struggled. They were (2-6) in the bubble. The team finished the season 30-42. J.J. Redrick has admitted to being unprepared. The players seemed unmotivated in many games. 

David Griffin, New Orleans Pelicans Executive Vice President, released this statement.

“I’m grateful for and appreciative of Alvin’s commitment to the organization and, most importantly, the local community,” said Griffin. “The City of New Orleans is richer because of his presence here. These types of moves are often about fit and timing, and we believe now is the right time to make this change and bring in a new voice.”

Gentry has previously coached the Phoenix Suns. He was the assistant coach for various NBA teams: San Antonio Spurs, Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Detroit Pistons, New Orleans Hornets, and the Golden State Warriors.