Trail Blazers Affirm Commitment to Stay in Portland

The Portland Trail Blazers have made it clear that they intend to remain at the Moda Center, signaling a shift in the tone surrounding the ongoing arena negotiations. At the team’s preseason media day, Blazers president Dewayne Hankins stated that the organization is working towards finalizing a lease extension and renovation deal to keep the franchise in Portland. Hankins emphasized that the team is committed to a deal that satisfies both ownership and public partners, reaffirming their dedication to staying in the city.

This statement marks a notable contrast to the hard stance taken by team owner Tom Dundon earlier in the year, who advocated for taxpayers to shoulder the entire cost of arena renovations and raised concerns about a potential franchise relocation. The team’s previous call for a “non-starter” term sheet further fueled divisions with city officials.

However, since then, state of Oregon, Multnomah County, and Portland have agreed on a framework that would collectively fund $586 million for Moda Center upgrades, with a crucial December deadline for the state’s portion of the funding.

While progress has been made, challenges remain, such as the city’s demand for rent and income tax, as well as the requirement to hire union workers. Blazers star Damian Lillard echoed Hankins’ optimistic outlook, expressing confidence that the Trail Blazers will remain in Portland, stating, “I don’t see a world where the Trail Blazers aren’t in Portland.

I just don’t.” NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has also warned that a failed deal would be considered a failure for the league. Blazers management remains open to increasing the frequency of negotiations, a proposal welcomed by Mayor Keith Wilson, who encouraged the sides to expedite the process.