Speculation regarding the future of the Portland Trail Blazers has reached a fever pitch. With ongoing debates over public funding for the Moda Center, many fans fear the team might relocate. However, local reporter Sean Highkin argues that a move is unlikely to happen.
In a recent column, Highkin addresses the concerns surrounding team owner Tom Dundon. He notes that the current landscape makes relocation difficult. Furthermore, he explains that if a city provides substantial public funds for arena renovations without a private contribution mandate, the league has a vested interest in ensuring the team stays put. If owners were allowed to abandon a city after receiving such a deal, the standard playbook for arena funding would fail.
Highkin also highlights the stance of NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. He believes Silver values the history of the franchise and the loyalty of the Portland fanbase. Moving the team would damage the league's reputation and lead to lower fan support in a new market. Because the commissioner prioritizes both stability and his legacy, he is expected to block any potential move by ownership. While negotiations remain tense, the consensus is that the Trail Blazers will stay in Portland.