Billups withdraws from Cavs’ search
Chauncey Billups spun away from the Cavaliers.
After discussing a lead role in Cleveland’s front office, Billups withdrew from consideration Monday. The five-time All-Star guard had been in discussions with Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert about joining the Eastern Conference champions, but Billups said the “timing just isn’t right.”
The Cavs have been looking for a general manager since David Griffin parted with the club just before the draft. Griffin helped guide Cleveland to three straight Finals appearances but could not resolve issues with Gilbert, who has yet to give a contract extension to any of the four GMs who have worked for him since 2005.
Billups met with Gilbert in Detroit and Cleveland. The 40-year-old does not have any front-office experience, but his solid reputation attracted him to Gilbert, who has known him since he played for the Pistons. It is believed Gilbert asked Billups to be president of basketball operations.
Billups released a statement to ESPN on his decision. He’s an analyst for the network.
“I have great respect for Dan Gilbert and the Cleveland Cavaliers, and I greatly appreciate the discussions we had regarding their organization,” Billups said.
Billups, who has strong roots in Denver, previously interviewed for Atlanta’s GM opening.
Cleveland assistant GM Koby Altman is leading the Cavs’ front office during free agency, and it’s possible he will assume the role full time.
To this point in free agency, Altman has overseen deals for shooting specialist Kyle Korver and guard Jose Calderon. The Cavs can’t announce those signings until Thursday. Briefly: The Lakers signed first-round draft picks Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma and Josh Hart. Ball is expected to make $33.4 million over four years in his contract slot as the second overall pick . ... Free-agent point guard Darren Collison reached agreement on a twoyear, $20 million deal with Indiana, ESPN reported, citing league sources . ... The Suns signed top draft pick Josh Jackson, a forward from Kansas, to a four-year deal that includes two one-year team options . ... The Hornets signed first-round draft choice Malik Monk, the 11th pick. The SEC’s Player of the Year from Kentucky is not participating in the Hornets’ summer-league games because of an ankle injury. He was hurt during workouts before the draft . ... The Suns declined a team option on Leandro Barbosa on Monday, saving the team $3.5 million in salary-cap space. The former Warriors guard, 34, had a $4 million contract for next season, with $500,000 guaranteed.