Tensions are rising in Portland as Blazers owner Tom Dundon disputes arena funding with local government. Despite his $4 billion purchase of the team, Dundon’s reputation for frugality and his refusal to commit to a long-term lease have fueled speculation about the franchise's future in the city.
In light of recent talks about relocation for the Portland Trail Blazers, following their owner Tom Dundon's dispute with the local government over arena renovations and a lease extension, NBA analysts Bill Simmons and Justin Verrier discussed the recent events.
The Blazers are seeking $600 million from various government agencies for renovations of their home arena, the Moda Center.
The arena is owned by the city of Portland, but Dundon is not planning to contribute any of his own money for renovations, despite occupying the venue often. Additionally, he has refused to extend the lease for the team to stay in Portland.
"On a daily basis, everyone is fearful that not only is this guy trying to screw them over, but also trying to do anything to get a good deal and if he doesn't get it he's gonna go wherever he can get it," Verrier comments on Dundon.
"He hasn't said anything or done anything that would endear himself to anybody in this city [Portland]. He doesn't seem to care about perception, repercussions of anything," Simmons added.
"Dame has a relationship with Portland like I've never seen before and Dundon has proven that he does not give a s**t about any of this stuff," Verrier emphasized.
Deni Avdija, Kevin Durant, Portland Trail Blazers, Houston Rockets
Deni Avdija, Kevin Durant, Portland Trail Blazers, Houston Rockets
Why Dundon isn't liked in Portland
After recently acquiring the Blazers, Tom Dundon made headlines with his cost-cutting moves, which reportedly include:
Staff being forced to check out of hotels by 12:30 PM to avoid late fees.
The team masseuse being denied a room for pre-game player treatment.
Two-way players being blocked from traveling to playoff games to save on food and lodging.
Free T-shirts for fans being canceled for Game 3 to reduce costs.
According to Jason Quick of the Athletic, a league source has said that Dundon "doesn’t give a f**k" about the team's cheap reputation.
Dundon, a billionaire who made his fortune in the sub-prime auto loan business, is known for this type of approach.
When he bought the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes in 2017, he made several cost-cutting changes, including firing the team's broadcasters and reducing salaries for coach Rod Brind'Amour and his staff.
Despite that, the Hurricanes have since become one of the NHL's top teams.
Dundon agreed to purchase the Trail Blazers from the estate of Paul Allen for over $4 billion last year.
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