The New Orleans Pelicans had a rough ride this season, constantly battling injuries that threw their rhythm off. With their star player playing only 30 games this season, Pelicans struggled to keep up without him, having an 11-34 record with Zion sitting out. The team had no choice but to shuffle the lineup 42 times throughout this season. As if that wasn’t enough Head Coach Willie Green was absent for their match against the Charlotte Hornets. Talk about bad timing!

The Pelicans and Willie Green started this season with high hopes after winning 49 games last year, making it the second-best season in the team’s history. But things didn’t go as planned. Injuries kept piling up, leaving Green with very few options. With so many key players missing, the Pelicans’ season quickly went downhill.

While players often miss games due to injuries, coaches stepping away isn’t uncommon in the NBA either. For example, Jeff Van Gundy, Boston Celtics’ Senior Consultant, recently took a break from his duties. Although the reason wasn’t disclosed initially, it later turned out to be a family emergency. Similarly, Karl-Anthony Towns missed a game for personal reasons, which was later revealed to be tied to a family funeral. When absences stem from personal matters or remain undisclosed, the news that follows is rarely ever good. 

While when will Green return is still not sure, in Green’s absence, James Borrego will be stepping up as interim head coach for tonight’s game.

James Borrego Steps Up Against His Former Team

Green’s absence and James Borrego facing off against his former team felt like more than just a coincidence. Before the game, Borrego shared his thoughts, saying, “So many people are gone.” Since his departure from Charlotte, only LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges remain with the team. But with LaMelo sidelined due to his ankle injury, Borrego couldn’t hide his disappointment. “I wish Melo was playing tonight. I wanted to see him out there and compete against him. It’s a little strange to go against your former team like this, but I’m looking forward to it,” he added.

With their playoff hopes fading, the focus has shifted. For Willie Green and James Borrego, it’s no longer just about managing rotations—it’s about shaping the Pelicans’ future. They’re likely to land a top pick in this year’s NBA Draft, aiming to pair a young star with their core while also addressing their ongoing injury concerns.