According to a respected analyst, Chauncey Billups of the Portland Trail Blazers is seen as one of the top coaching prospects if he decides to depart from his current position.

Veteran NBA reporter Chris Mannix mentioned on Wednesday evening that several teams are keeping an eye on Chauncey Billups, especially following the recent dismissal of two of his assistants by the Portland Trail Blazers.

Chris Mannix tweeted that league sources have revealed teams are closely observing Chauncey Billups’ situation in Portland. This interest has heightened as the Portland Trail Blazers recently parted ways with two assistants, including Billups’ brother, Rodney. Should Billups and Portland part ways, Mannix suggests that Billups would swiftly become a sought-after candidate for other coaching positions. Additionally, according to Aaron Fentress of The Oregonian, the Portland Trail Blazers chose not to renew the contracts of top assistant Scott Brooks and defensive coach Rodney Billups, who is Chauncey’s younger brother.

The Portland Trail Blazers endured a disappointing 2023-24 season, finishing with a 21-61 record, the worst in the Western Conference. Since Billups took over as head coach, the team has compiled an 81-165 record over the past three seasons. Despite this, Portland Trail Blazers general manager Joe Cronin stated in exit interviews that they are firmly committed to Billups for the upcoming season, praising him as an exceptional leader within the organization. Billups signed a five-year contract in 2021, with a team option for the final season, making the upcoming 2024-25 season the last guaranteed year for the former NBA star unless the front office exercises the option.