Blazers Owner Called 'Cheap' After Cutting Costs Story Hits, Or Is He Just Being Smart?

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At the time, it was the most important day of Tiago Splitter’s coaching career. The Portland Trail Blazers were playing the opening round of the Play-In Tournament against the Phoenix Suns. Win, and the Blazers were in the playoffs.

But instead of worrying about defensive strategy, or his rotation, Splitter was worried about the team masseuse. By order of new owner Tom Dundon, all members of the Blazers’ traveling party — with the exception of players and coaches — had to check out of their hotel at 12:30 p.m. in an effort to avoid late-checkout fees.

To wit: The Blazers are the only NBA team in the playoffs who are not traveling their two-way players, a move to save on hotels and food first reported by The Rose Garden Report. Dundon has conducted a phone-book’s worth of interviews with college and pro coaches, breaching the etiquette that sitting NBA coaches are usually afforded.

“I ought to tell you, I don’t think he gives a rat’s arse what is said about him,” the league source said. “Most owners care. They insulate themselves because they care very much about their image and profile. He doesn’t give a f—. He doesn’t even flinch with this stuff.”

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