METAIRIE, La. — During the formal introduction of Joe Dumars as the New Orleans Pelicans’ new executive vice president of basketball operations, he smiled when the subject of Zion Williamson arose. The 61-year-old Hall of Famer previously served as the NBA’s executive vice president and head of basketball operations, which involved overseeing player conduct.
“I’ve had to speak with Zion a few times at the league office,” Dumars remarked. He added that while he wouldn’t delve into the specifics of those discussions, he has had positive phone conversations with Williamson since assuming his role with the Pelicans.
This issue will likely resurface during the offseason as Dumars plans for a team coming off its worst record (21-61) in the past two decades. Williamson, who was the first overall pick in the 2019 draft, is just 24 years old and has demonstrated potential with an average of 24.7 points over 214 games. However, injuries have kept him sidelined for 258 regular-season games and every postseason match since his drafting.
Williamson’s off-the-court issues, including social media controversies and a one-game suspension this season for tardiness, have been concerning. Dumars noted that his expectations for player reliability and accountability are high. “You must set standards—and you can’t waver from those standards,” he stated.
During the introduction, only two players, CJ McCollum and Jose Alvarado, attended, alongside coach Willie Green, whose future with the team is uncertain. Dumars expressed admiration for Green, a fellow Detroit native, describing him as a “great man.”
Dumars succeeds David Griffin, who was dismissed after a six-year term that included the drafting of Williamson. His vision for the Pelicans remains unclear, as he emphasized the importance of getting to know the team and listening before making decisions.
Pelicans owner Gayle Benson praised Dumars, highlighting their growing relationship during his time at NBA HQ and noted his genuine approach to feedback. She mentioned Dumars’ Louisiana heritage and support for the community, saying, “He knows how important our teams are to our community.” Dumars, who has focused on building relationships and hiring like-minded individuals, remarked that embracing New Orleans would be crucial for future success.
