Joe Dumars Takes Charge of Pelicans Ahead of NBA Draft

Metairie, La. — Joe Dumars held his introductory press conference on April 22, 2025, at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center as the new executive vice president of basketball operations for the New Orleans Pelicans. Dumars, a Hall of Famer, hopes to recreate his successful legacy in the NBA, guiding the team in his home state.

Back in May, Dumars made significant moves, including a trade with the Washington Wizards that sent center Kelly Olynyk and a future second-round pick to Washington. In exchange, the Pelicans acquired guard Jordan Poole, forward Saddiq Bey, and the No. 40 pick in this year’s draft.

With the NBA draft approaching, Dumars’ decisions could significantly impact a franchise coming off its second-worst season. “We have some good talent on the roster,” Dumars said. “Unfortunately, last year it was just decimated with injuries. But that doesn’t stop you from setting the bar higher and pushing harder to be better.”

The Pelicans own two first-round picks, including the No. 7 overall pick, following a fall from No. 4 during the lottery. They gained the No. 23 pick in a trade with the Indiana Pacers, along with the No. 40 pick. Experts believe the depth of this draft class could yield valuable additions for New Orleans.

ESPN draft analyst Bobby Marks discussed the tiers of players expected to be available, stating, “There are three different tiers. It’s just a matter of what you like and who you think fits.” Dumars, embracing his new role, expressed his philosophy on drafting talent. “If all things are equal, then you go for the need. But if there is a gap, you’ve got to take the best player,” he said.

To help find that talent, Dumars hired an elite evaluator, Weaver, who previously helped the Oklahoma City Thunder draft key player Serge Ibaka in 2008. The Pelicans hope to repeat past successes, especially with last season’s first-round pick, center Yves Missi, who thrived and made the NBA All-Rookie second team.

As the draft unfolds, excitement builds around the potential for the Pelicans to add impactful players. “It’s a pretty deep draft,” said NBA analyst Jay Bilas, adding that late first-round picks often yield future stars. “You just have beliefs and try to gather as much intelligence as you can.”

The Pelicans’ draft strategies may shape the franchise’s future, as Dumars aims to solidify his mark on New Orleans.