The Portland Trail Blazers are at a crossroads, and it’s not just about their on-court performance. The franchise is in desperate need of a head coach, but the real question is: will new owner Tom Dundon actually pay for one? This isn’t just a basketball question; it’s a cultural and financial one, and it speaks volumes about the direction Dundon wants to take the team. Let’s dive in.
The Coaching Conundrum: A Situationship, Not a Commitment
The Blazers’ current coaching situation is, to put it mildly, a mess. Chauncey Billups, the coach of record, is entangled in legal issues and seemingly more focused on real estate than basketball. Meanwhile, Tiago Splitter has admirably stepped in as an interim coach, but the team’s reluctance to commit to him feels like a romantic partner who’s afraid to define the relationship.
Personally, I think this indecision is a missed opportunity. Splitter has done an incredible job under challenging circumstances, rebuilding the team’s defense and guiding them to 42 wins despite a roster riddled with injuries. If you ask me, the Blazers should have already cut ties with Billups and given Splitter a multi-year deal. Instead, they’re playing the field, and it’s starting to look like they’re more interested in saving a buck than building a championship contender.
Dundon’s Reputation: Cheap or Prudent?
Here’s where things get interesting. Tom Dundon’s approach to hiring a head coach is being described as, well, cheap. Rumors suggest he’s looking to pay around $1 million a year—a fraction of the market rate—and is targeting college coaches or former players who might accept less. Now, Dundon might call this prudent, but let’s be real: in the NBA, you get what you pay for.
What many people don’t realize is that a head coach isn’t just a tactician; they’re a culture-setter, a leader, and often the face of the franchise. Billups, for all his flaws, was exceptional at fostering a winning culture in Portland. Splitter, while impressive, is still a rookie coach. The Blazers need someone with gravitas, someone who can command respect and elevate the team to the next level.
From my perspective, Dundon’s reluctance to invest in a top-tier coach is a red flag. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the message it sends. Are the Blazers serious about competing, or are they content to be a mid-tier team? If Dundon wants to change the narrative, he needs to make a splash—not just in coaching but in his overall commitment to the franchise.
The Broader Implications: A League of Superstars and Coaches
Let’s take a step back and think about this in the context of the NBA. Outside of superstars, coaches are the most valued members of the league’s ecosystem. Look at the success of teams like the Warriors, Celtics, and Nuggets—their coaches are integral to their identities. The Blazers, meanwhile, haven’t had a truly credible head coach since Terry Stotts was fired five years ago.
This raises a deeper question: what does Dundon’s approach say about his vision for the Blazers? Is he aiming for sustained success, or is he just trying to cut costs and skate by? His track record with the Carolina Hurricanes, where he’s reportedly paid coach Rod Brind’Amour one of the NHL’s lowest salaries, doesn’t inspire confidence.
In my opinion, Dundon is making a critical mistake by underestimating the importance of the head coach position. A good coach can transform a team, but a cheap one can set them back years. The Blazers are on the cusp of something exciting, with Damian Lillard returning and a young core showing promise. Now is the time to invest, not pinch pennies.
The Path Forward: A Call for Boldness
If Dundon wants to reverse the narrative, he needs to act boldly. Hiring a proven coach like Frank Vogel or Mike Budenholzer would send a clear message: the Blazers are here to compete. Even committing fully to Splitter, with a multi-year deal and a Coach of the Year campaign, would show that Dundon is willing to back his people.
One thing that immediately stands out is how much Dundon has to gain by making the right move. The Blazers’ fanbase is starving for success, and a high-profile coaching hire could reignite their passion. Instead, the chatter around the league is that Dundon is a skinflint, more interested in saving money than winning games.
What this really suggests is that Dundon is at a pivotal moment. He can either double down on his reputation as a cost-cutter or redefine himself as an owner who’s willing to invest in greatness. The choice is his, but the clock is ticking.
Final Thoughts: A Minimum Wage for Maximum Impact
Here’s the irony: in Portland, even a car washer makes a minimum wage of $16.30 an hour. Yet, Dundon seems hesitant to pay a head coach what they’re truly worth. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just about money—it’s about respect, ambition, and the future of the franchise.
Personally, I think Dundon needs to remember that there’s a minimum standard for success in the NBA, and it’s not just about the salary cap. It’s about investing in the right people, building a winning culture, and showing your fanbase that you’re all-in. The Blazers deserve better, and so do their fans.
So, Tom Dundon, the ball is in your court. Will you pay for a coach who can take this team to the next level, or will you settle for the bare minimum? The answer will define your legacy in Portland—and in the NBA.
