Trail Blazers have options for acting coach after Chauncey Billups arrest

The Trail Blazers will need a new voice on the sideline, at least for now.

Head coach Chauncey Billups has been placed on leave following his arrest in connection with the federal gambling probe that has rocked the league. As relayed by Marc Stein of The Stein Line, Portland must name an acting head coach while Billups is away.

Two logical candidates are already on staff. Assistant Nate Bjorkgren filled in for two games last December when Billups missed time for personal reasons, while newly hired assistant Tiago Splitter brings head coaching experience from his stint overseas.

Portland hasn’t made a public decision yet, but with the Blazers scheduled to face Golden State on Friday, a quick move is expected.

Billups, 47, has been Portland’s coach since 2021 and signed an extension earlier this year that runs through 2028.

He’s currently on leave as the NBA reviews the federal indictments involving him and Heat guard Terry Rozier.

The Blazers lost their opener to the Timberwolves on Wednesday night. They host the Warriors on Friday.