Joe Cronin, the general manager of the Portland Trail Blazers, has agreed to a multiyear contract extension amidst a season of improvement. The Blazers have secured 35 wins so far, 14 more than last year. Since January, they rank among the top five for defensive efficiency and have successfully integrated both veterans and promising young players into their lineup. Notably, forward Deni Avdija has excelled since his trade, significantly contributing to the team’s performance. Cronin has a long history with the organization, evolving from intern to GM over nearly 20 years.
Portland nailed the trade for Avdija, who has averaged 24.9 points, 10.5 rebounds and 5.5 assists since the beginning of March.
Cronin, who was promoted to assistant GM in 2021, has spent more than 19 years with the Blazers organization, beginning as an intern and moving up through four leadership regimes.
The Blazers have been building around a mix of veterans such as Anfernee Simons, Deni Avdija, Jerami Grant and Deandre Ayton along with young talent.
They are 22-16 since Jan. 19 with a top-5 ranking in defensive efficiency during that span, according to ESPN Research.
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