The Portland Trail Blazers have announced that Chauncey Billups will be coaching the team for another year, according to general manager Joe Cronin. Despite speculation about his job security following the departure of several assistant coaches, including his brother Rodney and former NBA head coach Scott Brooks, Cronin expressed confidence in Billups during exit interviews. However, questions have arisen about whether Billups is the right person to oversee the team’s rebuilding process.
Since taking over in Portland, the team has struggled with a record of 81-165, including a 21-61 season. This 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.
Rumors suggest that other teams like Charlotte, Washington, and the Los Angeles Lakers are also searching for head coaches. Frank Vogel’s job in Phoenix may also 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.
Despite these challenges, Cronin emphasized player development as a priority during exit interviews with Billups. If Billups and the Blazers part ways, multiple other teams are interested in hiring him as their next head coach.
In summary, while Chauncey Billups has had some successes since taking over as head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers in 2019-2020 season but struggled with record of 81-165. As general manager Joe Cronin expressed confidence in him during exit interview but rumors have arisen about his job security due to departure of several assistant coaches including his brother Rodney and former NBA head coach Scott Brooks. Teams like Charlotte, Washington and Los Angeles Lakers are currently searching for head coaches and Frank Vogel’s job in Phoenix may also be at risk.