#1) Legitimate change in personnel
There were a number of reasons as to why Davis demanded his way out of town. Establishing his own brand in a larger market, going to a contender, or lack of mutual ground on the direction of the franchise are all examples. Let’s focus in on lack of direction, as Davis played under the same general manager his entire career, Dell Demps.
It was not working. That much is known. So you could understand why Davis might have reached a peak in his frustrations and demanded out of the Big Easy. However, he may not have foreseen his course of actions bringing about change in the front office.
Danny Ferry replaced Demps as interim GM. But family complications derailed his future as a permanent GM in the immediate future. So, the Pelicans looked elsewhere. And in the process found David Griffin. Actually, the two parties really found each other. As illustrated in his initial press conference, Griffin has been on cloud nine since being anointed as vice president of basketball operations for the Pelicans.
He brings about a new dynamic to an organization that has had limited success operating in a smaller market. Griffin has won a championship as GM of the Cleveland Cavaliers back in 2016. His championship pedigree and genuine love for the game and the city of New Orleans has ushered in a new culture of optimism.
With the addition of Griffin came another key hiring. The Pelicans have been plagued with lingering issues regarding their medical staff over the years. So they brought in Aaron Nelson, who was a key member of the NBA renowned Phoenix Suns medical staff that brought in revolutionary new concepts on injury prevention.
Perhaps the timing was coincidental and would have happened regardless of a trade demand by Anthony Davis or not. But since it was publicized this January, the Pelicans organization has been making all the correct moves regarding personnel.