Portland Trail Blazers general manager Joe Cronin has announced that Chauncey Billups will be coaching the team for another year, despite speculation about his job security. Cronin expressed confidence in Billups during his exit interview, stating that Billups’ personality is evident throughout the organization. However, the departure of several assistant coaches, including his brother Rodney and former NBA head coach Scott Brooks, has led to questions about Billups’ ability to lead the team through a rebuilding process.
Since taking over in Portland, Billups has faced significant challenges with a record of 81-165, including a 21-61 season. The poor record cannot solely be attributed to Billups, as the team faced significant injuries while Damian Lillard was on the roster and is currently in a full rebuild mode with younger players like Anfernee Simons and Scoot Henderson.
As a result of these challenges, Cronin emphasized player development as a priority while Billups focused on winning immediately. If Billups and the Blazers part ways, multiple other teams are interested in hiring him, as reported by Chris Mannix of Sports Illustrated.
Questions have arisen about whether Billups is the right person to oversee the Trail Blazers’ rebuilding process. Cronin’s reluctance to offer Billups a contract extension has left him in a limbo situation, which has prompted other teams to part ways with their coaches as well. Teams like Charlotte, Washington, and the Los Angeles Lakers are currently searching for head coaches. Rumors suggest that Frank Vogel’s job in Phoenix may be in jeopardy.
Billups will need to consider whether he wants to join a rebuilding team like the Hornets or Wizards or take on the challenge of leading a team with high expectations, such as the Lakers or potentially the Suns if their head coaching position becomes available.
In conclusion, while Chauncey Billups has had some successes during his time coaching in Portland