Anthony Davis Reflects on Pelicans Exit 7 Years Later

NBA star says door is 'closed' on potential return to New Orleans

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:42pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the various angles and perspectives of Anthony Davis' basketball career, with sharp planes and angles representing the tensions and complexities of his departure from the New Orleans Pelicans.A cubist interpretation of Anthony Davis' complex relationship with the New Orleans Pelicans franchise.New Orleans Today

In a recent interview on 'The Draymond Green Show', Washington Wizards forward Anthony Davis publicly addressed his 'bad breakup' with the New Orleans Pelicans for the first time, saying the door is 'closed' on a possible return to the team he played for from 2012 to 2019.

Why it matters

Davis' departure from the Pelicans in 2019 was contentious, with the star player requesting a trade and the team eventually sending him to the Los Angeles Lakers. This was a major turning point for the Pelicans franchise, and Davis' comments provide insight into the lingering tensions and his perspective on the situation 7 years later.

The details

During the interview, Davis reflected on the circumstances surrounding his exit from the Pelicans, describing it as a 'bad breakup'. He indicated that too much time has passed and the door is now 'closed' on a potential return to New Orleans, where he spent the first 7 seasons of his NBA career.

  • Anthony Davis was drafted by the New Orleans Pelicans in 2012.
  • Davis played for the Pelicans from 2012 to 2019.
  • Davis requested a trade from the Pelicans in 2019.
  • The Pelicans traded Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2019.

The players

Anthony Davis

A 7-time NBA All-Star and 2020 NBA champion, currently playing for the Washington Wizards.

New Orleans Pelicans

An NBA franchise based in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Draymond Green

A 4-time NBA champion and host of 'The Draymond Green Show'.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The door is closed in terms of a possible return to New Orleans.”

— Anthony Davis, Washington Wizards Forward

The takeaway

Davis' comments provide closure on a contentious chapter in Pelicans history, while also highlighting the lasting impact of his departure on the franchise and its fanbase. The interview offers a rare glimpse into the personal perspective of a superstar player reflecting on a difficult split from the team that drafted him.