David Griffin hopes to convince Davis to remain with Pelicans

Newly hired New Orleans Pelicans executive vice president David Griffin addressed the elephant in the room during his introductory press conference Wednesday.

Griffin said he intends to convince Anthony Davis to remain with the organization as he strives to build a legitimate championship contender in New Orleans, according to The Athletic's Will Guillory.

He added that he's spoken to Davis' agent, Rich Paul, stating, "We are both excited about what we could potentially build here."

Davis made it clear he wanted a move from the Pelicans when he asked for a trade ahead of February's deadline. New Orleans failed to come to terms with potential suitors and chose to hold on to the 26-year-old until at least July when it can reopen negotiations.

However, Griffin believes Davis is open to staying in New Orleans despite his demands, but he would prefer to establish how committed the big man is to the team, according to Guillory.

Griffin has proven in the past that he can win in smaller markets, as he helped build a perennial Finals contender with the second iteration of the LeBron James-led Cleveland Cavaliers.

The 45-year-old parted ways with the Cavaliers when the two sides couldn't come to terms on an extension in 2017.

Davis averaged 25.9 points, 12 boards, and 2.4 blocks in 56 appearances this season.