The Portland Trail Blazers are facing major backlash after laying off a significant number of business-side employees as part of a restructuring effort under new owner Tom Dundon.
More than 70 employees were impacted by the organizational changes, though the franchise has not publicly confirmed an exact number. The move comes during Dundon’s first full year owning the team and follows growing criticism surrounding the franchise’s aggressive cost-cutting measures.
Trail Blazers president Dewayne Hankins addressed the decision in a statement provided to The Oregonian.
“As part of our plans to position the organization for the future, we made the difficult decision to restructure several areas of the business,” Hankins said. “These changes impacted talented people who have helped shape the Trail Blazers over many years. We are deeply grateful for their contributions, their leadership and the care they showed every day for our team, our fans and the Portland community. Our focus now is supporting those affected through the transition and positioning the organization for long-term success.”
The layoffs are the latest controversial move tied to Dundon since purchasing the franchise. Reports over recent months have accused the new owner of implementing strict spending reductions across several areas of the organization.
Among the complaints were allegations that staff members were instructed to check out of hotels early during trips to avoid extra fees, while two-way players reportedly were not brought along for playoff road games.
Dundon recently defended his philosophy during an appearance on the “Game Over” podcast, where he pushed back against criticism labeling him as cheap.
“I just don’t want to waste money. I want to invest it,” Dundon said. “We’re going to take care of the players because it helps you win. It’s part of the deal.”
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