Whether it's been the two games against the Los Angeles Clippers to secure the eighth seed, the Play-In win over the Phoenix Suns, or now, the playoff win over the San Antonio Spurs, the Portland Trail Blazers simply find a way to keep winning these meaningful games. As a result, interim head coach Tiago Splitter continues to strengthen his case for returning as head coach next season.
After the 106-103 win over the Spurs, Splitter received what was perhaps his biggest co-sign yet, from All-Star Deni Avdija. "He got thrown into a difficult situation. But he's done a phenomenal job," Avdija said. "He's getting the best out of all of us, and we love playing for him."
Tiago Splitter is getting the best out of Portland's players
Portland has exceeded expectations in its first year under Splitter. He hasn't been perfect by any means, as the Blazers struggled with late-game execution, ATO plays, and a style of play that often contrasted with the weaknesses of their roster. For instance, they attempted the third-most three-pointers per game despite ranking third-worst in percentage. But all things considered, Splitter has absolutely earned a more permanent head coaching role in what has been an unexpected audition.
He was thrown into the fire just one game into the season, with Chauncey Billups' shocking departure amid federal indictments. Given Billups will never coach in the NBA again, and new owner Tom Dundon is already building a reputation as a frugal owner, Splitter genuinely may be the best of their available options.
What matters most in this league above anything is being a player's coach. This is a player-driven league, and having that stamp of approval from Portland's newest All-Star goes a long way.
The ascension of Portland's young core was arguably already on a similar trajectory. Still, it can't go unnoted that Avdija, Shaedon Sharpe, Scoot Henderson, and Donovan Clingan are all having the best seasons of their respective careers under Splitter. There's no reason to risk breaking that momentum by bringing in someone else.
Blazers are playing with fire in their head coaching search
But if Portland truly wants to keep Splitter around, they sure have an odd way of showing it.
Jake Fischer reported on The Stein Line that some contract extension discussions have been held with Splitter, but that hasn't stopped Dundon's hands-on approach to exploring alternative options, including at the collegiate level.
Splitter has made it clear he wants to be the head coach next season, previously saying "yes" when asked directly. But between the rumored low-ball offers and exploring alternatives when Splitter led Portland to their first playoff appearance in five years, it seems like there was a better way of making him feel like more of a priority if that was the case.
Perhaps he never was. But after seeing how Portland has fared in their first official playoff test, I don't see how they could find anyone better suited for the job.
Most importantly, it sounds like the players agree.
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