The New Orleans Pelicans are making major front-office moves — and they just landed a Hall of Fame name to lead the charge.

According to ESPN, Joe Dumars is finalizing a deal to become the Pelicans’ new President of Basketball Operations. Dumars, a Louisiana native and former NBA champion, will return to his roots as he looks to guide one of the most talented — yet injury-plagued — rosters in the league.

🏆 Championship Pedigree

Dumars previously served as the President of Basketball Operations for the Detroit Pistons from 2000 to 2014, where he famously built the rugged 2004 Pistons squad that stunned the Lakers in the NBA Finals. That team — featuring Chauncey Billups, Rip Hamilton, Ben Wallace, and Rasheed Wallace — remains one of the best examples of defense and chemistry over star power.

During his time in Detroit’s front office, Dumars was widely respected for his ability to identify talent and build a cohesive team. Now, he’ll be expected to do the same in New Orleans.

🏀 What This Means for the Pelicans

The move comes just days after the Pelicans parted ways with David Griffin, who went 209-263 in six seasons as head of basketball ops. While New Orleans boasts a promising young core — including Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and Trey Murphy — injuries and inconsistency have plagued the franchise.

Dumars’ leadership, experience, and eye for talent could be the stabilizing force New Orleans needs to take the next step.

🌆 Full-Circle Moment

For Dumars, this is more than a new gig — it’s a homecoming. The Natchitoches, Louisiana native is returning to the state where his basketball journey began. And now, he’s being asked to bring his Hall of Fame vision to a franchise hungry for postseason success.