The New Orleans Pelicans and head coach Stan Van Gundy have mutually agreed to part ways, the team announced on Wednesday.
Van Gundy, who was named the seventh head coach in franchise history on October 22, 2020, compiled a 31-41 (.431) regular-season record in one season with the Pelicans. Van Gundy has a career regular-season record of 554-425 (.566) with Miami (2003-06), Orlando (2007-12), Detroit (2014-18), and New Orleans.
“On behalf of Mrs. Gayle Benson and the Pelicans organization, I would like to thank Stan for the integrity and professionalism that he demonstrated during his time in New Orleans, as well as the commitment and work ethic he brought to our team,” said Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin via a press release. “This was a difficult decision as I have tremendous respect for Stan both personally and professionally, but we agreed it is in the best interest of our team to move forward in a different direction. We wish Stan, Kim, and their family all the best in the future.”
It should be interesting to see what happens next with Van Gundy. While what happened in New Orleans was a disappointment, the team struggled with injuries this season, so Van Gundy will probably get another shot elsewhere. In the end, Van Gundy and the Pelicans were just not a good fit.
