What started as a fairytale for the New Orleans Pelicans’ young core turned out to be a nightmare. Stan Van Gundy’s time with the team was brief and tumultuous, resulting in the head coach leaving the organization after only one season.
The 61-year-old couldn’t get things going at the Smoothie King Center, growing frustrated with his players and the lack of practice time he had before and during the 2020/21 season.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN, the Pelicans and the head coach are parting ways eight months after their relationship started.
ESPN Sources with @_Andrew_Lopez: After one season, Stan Van Gundy is out as the New Orleans Pelicans coach.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 16, 2021
Stan was a different coach to Alvin Gentry. He focuses his game on defense, and that could have created issues with his players. The Pelicans have a bright future, especially with Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram, but Van Gundy couldn’t take them to the next level.
Now the team’s front office needs to find the best replacement for Van Gundy. The Pels have the tools to compete for a playoff spot, but they need the head coach that unlocks their potential.
