Trail Blazers restructure business operations amid ownership transition
Blazers president Dewayne Hankins cites future success as local reports confirm significant workforce reductions under the new regime.
The Portland Trail Blazers have initiated a substantial restructuring of their business operations, resulting in the dismissal of a significant number of employees. Local reports indicate that more than 70 staff members were affected by the move, which is part of a broader organisational overhaul under new owner Tom Dundon.
Blazers president Dewayne Hankins confirmed the changes in a statement provided to The Oregonian, describing the restructuring as a necessary step to position the organisation for long-term success. Hankins acknowledged the impact on the workforce, expressing gratitude for the contributions of those affected and stating that the club’s current focus is on supporting them through the transition.
The layoffs come amidst scrutiny of Dundon’s management style, particularly regarding his history of cost-cutting measures. Since acquiring the franchise, Dundon has faced criticism for directives such as asking staff to check out of hotels early to avoid fees and excluding two-way players from playoff road trips. The club did not immediately return a message from ESPN regarding the specific details of the departments or roles impacted by the cuts.
Addressing the criticism on the "Game Over" podcast last week, Dundon defended his approach by referencing his tenure with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes. He argued that the Blazers’ operational budget exceeds that of the Hurricanes by approximately $100 million annually, excluding player costs, and asserted that he does not wish to waste money.
Dundon stated his intention to invest in player salaries to improve on-court performance, arguing that operational efficiency is distinct from competitive investment. He noted that the Hurricanes have recorded the first- or second-best record in the league since he purchased the team, suggesting that his financial strategy yields positive results.
Workforce adjustments following an ownership change are not uncommon in the NBA. However, the specific scope of the Blazers’ restructuring remains unconfirmed by the organisation, with local reports serving as the primary source for the scale of the reductions. The club maintains that the changes are aimed at ensuring fiscal responsibility while pursuing future success.
