David Griffin's tenure as Cavaliers GM is "ending after three consecutive Finals appearances in his only years on the job," as he and team Owner Dan Gilbert have "decided to part ways mutually." Sources said that LeBron James and his "inner circle were not consulted about Griffin's dismissal or departure," but they were "notified by Gilbert once a decision was made" (Cleveland PLAIN DEALER, 6/20). Cavaliers Senior VP/Basketball Operations Trent Redden "also will leave the organization." Both Griffin and Redden's contracts were "up at the end of the month." In his 12-plus years owning the team, Gilbert "has yet to come to an agreement" with any GM on a contract extension (ESPN.com, 6/19).
Meanwhile, ESPN NBA analyst Chauncey Billups and the Cavaliers have "mutual interest in a front-office role," according to sources. They are "expected to meet" today. Billups has had a relationship with Gilbert for "more than a decade since Billups endorsed Rock Financial, Gilbert's Detroit-based mortgage company," when he played for the Pistons. Billups also is "close with Cavs head coach Tyronn Lue" (ESPN.com, 6/19).
