Tom Dundon is not wasting any time making his presence felt as the owner of the Portland Trail Blazers. In his opening press conference, he was clear that it's time for the Blazers to win now. His confidence borders on hubris — but like I said recently, if he backs up what he's saying, Blazers fans will embrace his boldness.
It won't take long for Dundon to be faced with his first major decision running this team, and it will be a decision that's likely to divide the fans no matter what he decides; who will coach this team in 2026-27 and beyond? Is Tiago Splitter the guy, or does Dundon want to install a coach of his own to start his first full season as the invisible hand pulling the strings of the Blazers?
It's too early to be sure one way or another. But NBA insider Marc Stein reported this weekend that Dundon is at least already considering which path to take:
"League sources say Dundon has been actively exploring the coaching market to get a better sense of Portland's potential options at season's end..."
As he should, to be fair. Stein also implied that numerous coaching positions will open up this summer, and Dundon should make sure not to be blindsided by that. While this doesn't specifically spell bad news for Tiago Splitter, it doesn't seem like Dundon is chomping at the bit to sign the interim head coach to a longterm deal, either. Jason Quick of The Athletic asked Dundon specifically about Splitter, and his answer was noncommittal:
"I think Tiago's done a really good job, and the team is sitting here with this sort of opportunity, and we'll get more information everyday, but so far he's done a really great job and I'm curious to see where this goes from here because my expectations are— I want to win."
A tasty word salad, I must say.
Tiago Splitter might not have a chance under new ownership
I have made my stance clear about the Blazers' coaching search; Tiago Splitter has done more than enough to earn a chance at the full-time gig. He was clearly overwhelmed at the start of the year (who wouldn't be in his position), but has grown more comfortable as the year progresses. A competitive playoff appearance against the Thunder or Spurs shouldn't be required for him to lock down the job, but it likely is at this point.
To be fair, I think it would be irresponsible not to scour the coaching market for the best fit, and it's fine that Dundon is doing that. But I am wary that Dundon will decide not to bring Splitter back because he wants to implement his own staff — not because he didn't actually earn the position.