Tom Dundon Talked to Big-Name Coaches, Execs When Taking Over Blazers
Blazer's Edge • • sports
Key Points:
- Portland Trail Blazers owner Tom Dundon has engaged in extensive conversations with high-profile NBA coaches and executives, contradicting reports that he aims to hire inexpensive coaching staff.
- Dundon’s search included contacts with coaches Josh Schertz, Ben McCollum, Michael Malone, and former Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau, as well as former Toronto executive Masai Ujiri.
- Despite Dundon's reputation for cost-cutting in other areas of the franchise, sources indicate that price is not the primary factor in the coaching search, with the focus on securing the best candidate.
- The approach of conducting a covert coaching and executive search while current staff remain employed has drawn criticism as disrespectful, but Dundon continues the process regardless.
- The Athletic’s Jason Quick highlights that the NBA’s word-of-mouth nature leads to rapid leaks about such searches, making secrecy difficult for Dundon’s team.
