After five seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans, Alvin Gentry’s time as coach there is up. The team confirmed Gentry’s dismissal in a news release Saturday.
Per multiple reports, LA Clippers assistant coach Tyronn Lue is considered a leading candidate to fill Gentry’s post. Additionally, Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach Jason Kidd and Brooklyn Nets interim coach Jacque Vaughn are potential candidates to replace Gentry, Lopez reports.
Gentry went 175-225 in his stint with the Pelicans, reaching the playoffs in 2017-18. That team, led by former All-Star big man Anthony Davis, defeated the Portland Trail Blazers in the first round before losing 4-1 in the Western Conference semifinals to the Golden State Warriors.
“I’m grateful for and appreciative of Alvin’s commitment to the organization and, most importantly, the local community,” Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin said in a release. “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.”
The Pelicans entered a period of transition shortly thereafter. Davis made his desire to be traded known the following season and he was dealt to the Lakers last summer. The Pelicans have plenty of young talent to build around, including star rookie Zion Williamson and All-Star Brandon Ingram (should he re-sign).
