Blazers weigh continuity with interim coach Tiago Splitter, discussing an extension as the team battles for the postseason amid ownership changes.
The Portland Trail Blazers have at least explored the idea of keeping Tiago Splitter in place.
According to reports, the organization has held internal discussions about a potential contract extension for Splitter, who stepped in as head coach this season following Chauncey Billups’ departure.
While nothing appears imminent, the conversations signal that Portland is weighing continuity as the team pushes toward the postseason.
Splitter has guided the Blazers to a 40–40 record so far, keeping them firmly in the Play-In mix in a competitive Western Conference.
Considering the timing of his promotion and the expectations surrounding a young roster, the results have at least put him in the conversation to remain on the sideline beyond this season.
Still, the former NBA champions future is far from settled.
New team owner Tom Dundon is reportedly taking a wide-angle look at the organization, including the coaching position. That kind of top-down evaluation isn’t unusual during a transition in ownership, but it does introduce uncertainty, especially for a first-year head coach still establishing his footing.
Portland’s search isn’t expected to be limited to the NBA ranks, either. The team is believed to be doing homework on potential candidates at the college level, suggesting they’re open to a range of directions depending on how the season closes.
That leaves Splitter in a somewhat delicate position. He’s done enough to earn consideration, but not enough to remove all doubt.
The situation is made more complicated by questions surrounding the front office. Assistant general manager Sergi Oliva and assistant GM Mike Schmitz were recently suspended for two weeks without pay after making impermissible contact with prospect Hansen Yang prior to the draft.
While the discipline is temporary, it adds another layer of instability at a time when the organization is already navigating change.
Taken together, it paints a picture of a franchise still figuring out its long-term structure, on the bench and in the front office.
For now, Splitter’s focus remains on the court.
With Portland fighting for positioning in the Play-In Tournament, the final stretch of the season could carry added weight for his future. A strong finish, or even a playoff appearance, would only strengthen his case to stay.
But until a decision is made, everything remains on the table.
The Blazers have started the conversation. What comes next will likely depend on how the rest of the season plays out, and how the organization ultimately chooses to define its next phase.