The New Orleans Pelicans set a franchise record with their 12th consecutive loss on Sunday afternoon against the Orlando Magic, falling to 6-21 on the year and 14th in the Western Conference.
Pelicans head coach Alvin Gentry refused to comment on his job status following the loss, but he did say that he would “keep showing up every day doing what he can to get it corrected.”
I asked Alvin Gentry is he was concerned about his job status.
He said it is not his decision but will keep showing up every day doing what he can to get it corrected.
— Scott Kushner (@ScottDKushner) December 15, 2019
The Pelicans hired Gentry at the end of the 2014-15 season, but he has had little success since taking the reins. Gentry has made the playoffs just once and has failed to eclipse 40 wins in three of his four full seasons in charge. Of course, last season is somewhat of a wash due to the Anthony Davis drama, but there has not been a whole lot of winning going on in New Orleans lately.
But while the Pels continue to slide, Gentry's job appears to be safe, for now. Sam Amick and John Hollinger of The Athletic reported that New Orleans' front office believes that injuries have had a major impact on this current season:
A source with knowledge of the Pelicans’ front office thinking made it clear that the rash of injuries is seen as a significant reason to give Gentry and his staff some cover and, eventually, a chance to coach this team once it gets healthy.
Of course, top overall pick Zion Williamson has yet to play this season after undergoing an arthroscopic procedure on his knee in October.
Still, the Pelicans were regarded as a potential playoff contender in a loaded Western Conference. Instead, they have been one of the worst defensive teams in the league, ranking 27th in defensive rating, according to Basketball Reference.
If nothing else, will Alvin Gentry be able to light the fire in his team on the defensive side of the ball?
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