In her biggest decision since taking over the Pelicans eleven months ago, Gayle Benson relieved longtime general manger Dell Demps of his duties Friday. In doing so, she marked the earnest beginning of a new era of New Orleans ownership.
When Benson initially took over following the death of her late husband, the Pelicans were flying high. The team was just starting to come together on the court for what would be a blazing hot finish to the season that saw the Pelicans advance to the second round of the playoffs.
Given the success of the prior season, it was no surprise that Benson decided to stick with the Demps to see if he could finally turn the Pelicans into a consistent winner.