Overview
- Tiago Splitter remains the interim coach after Chauncey Billups was put on indefinite leave following his October arrest in an FBI gambling investigation.
- Portland finished 42–40 and secured a playoff berth with a Play-In win over the Suns to set up a first-round series against the Spurs.
- Splitter says he is shaping a people-first culture modeled on Gregg Popovich, stressing relationships and involving every player on the roster.
- ClutchPoints insider Brett Siegel reported that players want Splitter promoted to the full-time job after the season.
- The Express-News, citing Marc Stein, reported that new owner Tom Dundon is surveying outside candidates, leaving Splitter’s long-term status unresolved heading into the postseason.