The Anthony Davis trade saga was easily one of the most entertaining stories of the NBA regular season. However, it seems like this tug-of-war between AD and New Orleans will continue into the off-season as the Pelicans' front office says it thinks Davis could stay.
During Wednesday's introductory press conference, the Pelicans' new executive vice president of basketball operations David Griffin disclosed to the media that he expects The Brow to be in New Orleans next season. Griffin's assertions are rooted in the familiarity he has with Davis' agent Rich Paul and Klutch Sports. Prior to his position with New Orleans, Griffin served as the general manager for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2010 to 2017. It was during his tenure with the organization that one of Paul's other high-profile clients LeBron James returned to Cleveland. Also, he was instrumental in creating the supporting cast needed for James and Irving to bring the franchise its first championship. Griffin believes that this history of winning will persuade Paul and Davis.
"Rich Paul and I were part of succeeding. They will understand when I say this, 'You are either all the way or all the way out,'" Griffin said. "We have a long successful history with Klutch Sports. Rich Paul and I have spoke about Anthony. We are both excited about what we could potentially build here."
The best way to keep a star player happy is by winning. While this potential to build is enticing, New Orleans still has to solidify a lot of moving pieces before they fulfill Griffin's championship promises. The biggest of which is the team's open vacancy at the general manager position. Currently, Danny Ferry serves as the Pelicans' interim general manager after the team fired Dell Demps. Yet, it's unclear how Davis feels about anyone in the front office after the way they handled his trade demand. Still, Griffin feels that the team can acquire the right pieces to put together an immediate championship run.
"Make no mistake about this, we are in the business we are competing for championships," Griffin said. "This is the last day someone in basketball ops will say this... You earn the right to have other people say the word championships about you."
