Portland Trail Blazers general manager Joe Cronin has announced that Chauncey Billups will return to coach the team for another year. Cronin expressed confidence in Billups during his exit interview, stating that his personality is evident throughout the organization. However, speculation has arisen about Billups’ job security following the departure of several assistant coaches, including his brother Rodney and former NBA head coach Scott Brooks.
Despite taking over in Portland, the team has struggled 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 undergoing a full rebuild with younger players such as Anfernee Simons and Scoot Henderson.
The questions surrounding whether Billups is the right person to lead the Trail Blazers’ rebuilding process have caused some concern. Cronin’s reluctance to offer Billups an extension has left him in a limbo situation, prompting other teams to part ways with their coaches as well. Teams like Charlotte, Washington, and Los Angeles Lakers are currently looking for head coaches. Rumors suggest that 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 Hornets or Wizards or take on the challenge of leading a team with high expectations such as Lakers or potentially Suns if their head coaching position becomes available.
