The Ernie Grunfeld era in Washington, D.C. has come to an end. According to multiple media reports, Grunfeld, a longtime executive with the Wizards who joined the front office back in 2003, has been let go by the franchise. The first report came via Marc Stein of the New York Times, and was soon confirmed by a number of others.
The Wizards have decided to dismiss longtime team president Ernie Grunfeld, according to league sources
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) April 2, 2019
Can confirm. Grunfeld was not at the practice facility today. Ted Leonsis was. https://t.co/6G1LkUEe3w
— Candace Buckner (@CandaceDBuckner) April 2, 2019
Breaking News: Wizards have fired Ernie Grunfeld as the Teams President of Basketball Operations.
— Chris Miller 🎥🎙🏀 (@CMillsPXP) April 2, 2019
The Washington Wizards have fired GM Ernie Grunfeld, league sources tell @TheAthleticNBA @Stadium.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 2, 2019
Eventually, the news was confirmed by the team, which put out a statement saying Grunfeld’s tenure was over.
Official: We have relieved Ernie Grunfeld of his duties as Team President.https://t.co/a811eQj4Ws
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) April 2, 2019
“We did not meet our stated goals of qualifying for the playoffs this season and, despite playing with injuries to several key players, we have a culture of accountability and a responsibility of managing to positive outcomes,” Wizards owner Ted Leonsis said in a statement. “I wish to thank Ernie for his service to the Washington Wizards. He and his family have been great leaders in our community and have worked tirelessly to make us a top NBA franchise.”
The only thing that is surprising about firing Grunfeld is that it didn’t happen sooner. He has drawn the ire of Wizards fans for years, and even though Washington had some decent season during his time with the front office, it always felt like there was a ceiling on what it could accomplish under his guidance. This summer is a huge one in D.C. following a disappointing 2018-19 campaign, especially because All-Star guard Bradley Beal could potentially sign a monster extension. Before that happens, though, the Wizards will need to figure out who is going to replace Grunfeld as the person to captain the ship.
