The New Orleans Pelicans are 10-20 and have failed to reach lofty expectations this season. Despite that, they sit just three games out of the playoff picture thanks in large part to a seriously degraded Western Conference.

On the other side of the parking lot on Airline Drive the Saints have been eliminated from playoff contention for the last two weeks. Drew Brees, torn plantar fascia and all, is playing in a meaningless game against the Jacksonville Jaguars which will likely hurt the Saints draft stock. Head coach Sean Payton has rumored interest from a number of NFL teams and could find a new address during the winter.

At the top of both organizations lies Mickey Loomis. Officially he is the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Saints AND the Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Pelicans. However, he has long maintained that Dell Demps is the one calling the shots on the basketball side of things. Rumors swirling around Payton's future in the Crescent City mean changes might be coming for the Saints. And, unfortunately, the Pelicans.

Jason La Confora reported earlier today that structural changes are on the way for both the Saints and Pelicans. Loomis will take a step back from the football operations to exert more influence on the basketball side of things.

Mickey Loomis, the Saints' executive vice president and general manager, is likely be given a more overarching role, with a perch that takes him out of the day-to-day decision making of the Saints and puts him in a position that further involves him in the NBA's Pelicans, also owned by Benson, and involves assuming more macro-level duties with both clubs (the Pelicans have fallen on very hard times as well and are in need of a rebuild).

Demps has his own flaws and I wouldn't be surprised if he finds himself searching for employment this summer if this season continues at a horrendous pace. Giving more basketball responsibilities to a football guy? This reeks of owner Tom Benson trusting only those within his inner circle regardless of their actual qualifications.

Next up, Joe Dumars to New Orleans rumors. Just you wait. Pass the Pepto Bismol.