For every franchise in the NBA, having an active and responsible front office is necessary. You cannot hope for a dream team if the general manager and company don’t envision the same. However, for the Portland Trail Blazers, they are finding their light in Joe Cronin.

Therefore, without further ado, Portland’s GM Joe Cronin has agreed on a long-term extension with the franchise, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported. He is reportedly ready to spend a long time here in Oregon.

Meanwhile, the Blazers have racked up 35 wins this season, marking a 14-game improvement. Since January 19, they’ve gone 22-16, and during that 38-game stretch, they’ve ranked among the top 5 teams in defensive efficiency. You could say that Cronin’s leadership has pushed the team towards its betterment.

At the same time, Joe Cronin made a bold move during the February trade deadline that cannot be ignored. Who in the whole wide world would ever make such a choice? Idealistically, no one. But well, Portland’s GM chose his own path. What did he do? Cronin decided to sit out the trade deadline.

Joe Cronin’s trade deadline decision might have played a role in his contract extension

To begin with, the fans are happy with the franchise’s choice of keeping Joe Cronin around. They say it’s the beginning of the rebuild process. Fans believe that the GM has dealt with the cards well, and so keeping his for a while would benefit Portland. Despite not making it to the NBA off-season this time, the Blazers’ supporters are satisfied because of the level of competitiveness they’ve brought into their game. Most importantly, Joe Cronin’s February move seems to have played a bigger role in this case.

The GM and Portland’s front office shocked the basketball world when they announced to bypass the trade lanes when the windows were open for exploration. Across the league, many expected the Trail Blazers to be aggressive at the deadline, likely acting as sellers given the number of veterans on the roster. Instead, Portland opted to stay quiet, making no trades.  Cronin later spoke on the unexpected move, shedding light on the rationale behind their choice.

Joe Cronin acknowledged the desire for trade deadline excitement, admitting, “We know a lot of fans, and probably a lot of people in here, prefer a little bit of action.” However, despite actively exploring opportunities, he revealed, “We just didn’t find the value. So, we decided to pass.” In the end, the Blazers chose patience over impulse, holding firm in pursuit of long-term gains.

Most importantly, Cronin appreciates how the team has grown. They’ve left their flaws behind. Now, they’re learning to play their own style. Portland’s decision to extend his contract says it all. The other 29 teams should be worried. Their rebuild could soon threaten the title race.

Thus, Portland’s decision to stay the course reflects a deeper belief in Joe Cronin’s vision. While others chased quick fixes, the Blazers embraced growth and grit—earning wins, respect, and now, a long-term commitment. As the franchise leans into its rebuild, Cronin’s steady hand might just be the cornerstone they’ve been waiting for.