Tiago Splitter unlikely to land permanent Blazers job despite strong interim run

Tiago Splitter steadied the Trail Blazers when they needed it. It may not be enough to keep the job.

Despite leading Portland to a 42-39 finish and a playoff berth after taking over early in the season, Splitter is not considered a frontrunner to become the team’s full-time head coach, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.

Portland appears to be casting a wide net.

Fischer reports the organization plans to interview as many as 30 candidates as new owner Tom Dundon looks to fully survey the market before making a decision. That approach has raised some eyebrows around the league.

Dundon has already implemented cost-cutting measures and began the coaching search before the season ended. According to Fischer, that has not sat well with some potential candidates.

Several assistant coaches have declined interest, with concerns also circulating about a below-market salary for the position.

Still, the search is moving forward.

Nets assistant Steve Hetzel and Nuggets assistant Jared Dudley are among the names to watch. Hetzel has prior ties to Portland and a connection to Damian Lillard, who has offered input during the process.

Sean Highkin of the Rose Garden Report added another name to the mix, reporting that Lakers assistant Greg St. Jean is also receiving consideration.

Splitter delivered results. The Blazers, it seems, are still looking around.