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On Wednesday, Stan Van Gundy reportedly agreed to become the next head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans after the organization fired Alvin Gentry in August, according to ESPN. Van Gundy confirmed the news on Twitter.
Van Gundy arrives in New Orleans boasting a 523-384 record in 12 seasons as head coach after stops with the Miami Heat, Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons. He has won at least 50 games in five different seasons and led the Magic to the NBA Finals in 2009.
The 61-year-old inherits a team that posted a 30-42 record last season and failed to qualify for the postseason at the Walt Disney World Resort. Despite missing the playoffs, Van Gundy will have a good blend of veterans and younger players that likely made the job attractive.
I’m excited to join a talented New Orleans Pelicans team. It will be an honor to work with our players and to work for Mrs. Benson and David Griffin, Trajan Langdon, their staff and the great people of New Orleans. I can’t wait to talk to our players and get the process started
— Stan Van Gundy (@realStanVG) October 21, 2020
Van Gundy has been touted for his ability to teach his players while bringing accountability and discipline on and off of the court. His former players have often praised him for his level of preparation throughout the season and playoffs.
However, the immediate reaction to the hiring appeared to be mixed among executives and coaches. According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, one anonymous Western Conference assistant coach wasn’t necessarily impressed by the move.
It doesn’t move the needle for me. I didn’t think Stan would get another job. I know they want structure and accountability, but a 61-year-old, non-former player connecting with a 20-year-old Zion [Williamson], 22-year-old Lonzo Ball, and 23-year-old Brandon Ingram wouldn’t exactly be my move. Thought they’d push harder for Jason Kidd, personally.
Of course, one reason why the Pelicans’ job was attractive is because of the presence of Williamson. The No. 1 overall pick proved to be electric during his 24 games on the court last season and his relationship with Van Gundy will be key to the Pelicans having success.
Additionally, the Pelicans also have Ball, Ingram, Josh Hart, Jaxson Hayes and Nickeil Alexander-Walker in the fold, as well. Ingram was named the Most Improved Player while Ball and Hart showed improvement and the rookies showed promise throughout the year.
“He’s a very good coach but I don’t know if he fits with the players on the team,” a long-time Western Conference executive said, according to HoopsHype.
While some have doubts about Van Gundy taking over, others like the move since he will bring structure and allow his players to grow under his watch. J.J. Redick has said in the past that he owes a lot to Van Gundy for giving him his start with the Magic early on in his career.
Certainly, there are areas where Van Gundy excels that will be a positive change for the Pelicans while other elements will need to be developed in the coming months. In any case, the fit between the two will be worth monitoring…
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