NBA Rumors: Pelicans, Willie Green, James Borrego, Suns, Nuggets, David Adelman

Pelicans

Former Pelicans executive David Griffin attempted to dismiss head coach Willie Green earlier this season but was overruled by ownership, which continued to back Green, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

Green, a former assistant coach with the Suns, had been floated as a potential candidate for the Suns’ head coaching vacancy. However, with Griffin no longer leading basketball operations in New Orleans, Green’s job security has improved. Joe Dumars, who has taken over basketball operations for the Pelicans, is expected to retain Green and perhaps trade Zion Williamson, according to multiple reports.

Dumars has long-standing ties to Green, nearly selecting him in the 2003 NBA Draft during his tenure as general manager of the Pistons.

• While Green may not be a leading candidate in Phoenix, his lead assistant, James Borrego, is drawing interest from multiple teams with coaching vacancies, including the Suns. Borrego may have replaced Green had Griffin remained in charge, but with Green likely staying on, changes to the coaching staff are anticipated, potentially paving the way for Borrego’s departure.

Suns

The Suns’ search for a new head coach continues to take shape, with several candidates emerging and potential changes looming in the front office.

Rockets assistant Ben Sullivan is among the names being considered for the Suns’ vacancy, according to Scotto, who confirmed a list of previously reported candidates by NBA Insider Chris Haynes and added Sullivan as a possible target.

Sullivan, a former assistant with the Bucks and Celtics, is known for his work with player development and shooting mechanics, particularly during his time with Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee.

Haynes cited former Kings coach Mike Brown and current Cavaliers assistant Johnnie Bryant among a list of potential candidates for the Suns’ vacancy.

• Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds the status of Suns general manager James Jones, whose contract is set to expire. According to Scotto, Jones’ future with the franchise is viewed as “murky,” and changes to the front office remain under consideration as Phoenix navigates a pivotal offseason.

Nuggets

• Nuggets interim coach David Adelman has a “real chance” to earn the permanent position, Scotto wrote.
• Adelman has the backing of Denver stars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, and a deep postseason run would likely strengthen his case to remain in the role beyond this season.