Joe Cronin, general manager of the Portland Trail Blazers, has secured a multiyear contract extension following a notable turnaround in team performance this season. The Blazers have shown significant improvement, boasting 35 wins so far, a notable 14-win increase from last season. Since mid-January, the team is 22-16 and has achieved a top-5 defensive efficiency ranking.

The roster features a blend of seasoned players like Anfernee Simons, Jerami Grant, Deandre Ayton, and emerging talents such as Shaedon Sharpe and Scoot Henderson. Notably, Deni Avdija has made a substantial impact, averaging 24.9 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists since early March, cementing the team's strategic direction as one focused on both experience and youth.