Blazers interview Nuggets, Rockets assistants amid Tiago Splitter drama

The Portland Trail Blazers have begun their head coaching search, conducting interviews with assistants across the league as uncertainty continues to surround interim coach Tiago Splitter’s future.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Portland has interviewed Denver Nuggets lead assistant Jared Dudley and Houston Rockets assistant Ben Sullivan. The update, shared Friday on X, formerly known as Twitter, signals the organization’s willingness to explore external candidates despite Splitter’s success during the 2025-26 season.

Scotto’s report aligns with earlier reporting from Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, who noted that Portland is preparing for a comprehensive coaching search.

“Both the Orlando Magic and Portland Trail Blazers are prepared to conduct coaching searches for two different reasons.”

Siegel added context to Splitter’s situation, highlighting the contrast between his on-court results and his current standing with ownership.

“As for the Trail Blazers, it should be a given that Tiago Splitter earns a new contract to become the head coach of the team after the marvelous job he did as the interim coach. Taking over for Chauncey Billups, who was arrested by the FBI right at the start of the season, Splitter not only further developed this young Blazers core, but he also led them to a 42-40 record and the 7-seed in the West.

This was the best season Portland has had since they posted a 42-30 record during the shortened 2020-21 season, which is also the last time they made the playoffs.”

Portland’s season, however, came to an end last week when they were eliminated in five games by the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the playoffs.

The latest reporting for @ClutchPoints on Tiago Splitter’s future with the Trail Blazers and why early indications are that the team will find a new head coach: pic.twitter.com/DdZ7lCox7g

— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) May 7, 2026

Blazers face Tiago Splitter uncertainty as contract tension and locker room support collide

Despite those accomplishments, Splitter’s status remains uncertain. Reports have indicated that contract discussions between Splitter and the organization fell short of league standards, with an offer described as “well below” the average head coaching salary. The situation has contributed to tension between Splitter and the team’s new ownership group led by Tom Dundon.

Siegel further reported that Splitter’s relationship with ownership is “on thin ice,” complicating what might otherwise have been a straightforward decision. The development has drawn attention given the strong support Splitter has received from within the locker room.

Players, including Matisse Thybulle, have publicly praised Splitter’s impact, emphasizing his role in the team’s improvement and culture during the season.

As a result, Portland is expected to conduct a wide-ranging search that could include experienced NBA head coaches, current assistants and potentially collegiate candidates. Former players transitioning into coaching roles are also expected to be considered.

While the possibility remains that the Blazers could revisit negotiations with Splitter, the organization’s active pursuit of other candidates suggests a more complex path forward. Following a playoff appearance and a 42-40 record, Portland now faces a pivotal decision that could shape the direction of the franchise moving forward.

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