Pelicans Weigh Borrego, Kevin Ollie for Head Coach

Merlin sees New Orleans move on from Willie Green after a 2–10 start and has begun weighing interim coach James Borrego and former UConn boss Kevin Ollie — Begley reports Borrego "will get consideration" and Ollie "will also be among those who get consideration." The decision matters: the Pelicans surrendered an unprotected 2026 first-rounder to move up for Derik Queen, so stabilizing the roster and salvaging the season carries real cost. Borrego brings the steadier NBA résumé (interim Orlando, four years in Charlotte; .458 winning rate vs. Green’s .441). Ollie brings a 2014 national title, NBA playing chops and recent Nets interim experience but carries collegiate compliance baggage. Merlin senses New Orleans leans to continuity now, though a dramatic cultural reset remains an open door.