yardbarker
The Portland Trail Blazers are actively searching for a new television play-by-play announcer, and according to longtime Portland sportswriter and broadcaster Dwight Jaynes, three well-known names are under consideration: Chris Miles, Kyle Draper, and Matt Winer. Jaynes shared on X that league sources indicate at least three individuals remain in the running, specifying Miles with NBA TV, Draper with the Kings, and Winer with the Hawks.
The vacancy arose after Portland hired and then fired Braiden Bell on the same day last week, following the discovery of offensive social media posts he had written as a teenager. Bell has since retained legal counsel and is seeking reinstatement. However, the Blazers have shown no signs of reversing their decision.
In a statement reported by The Athletic's Jason Quick, the team said, "We stand by our statement issued last week and have no further comment at this time. We wish Mr. Bell the best." Bell's attorney, Arnie Herz, has argued that the organization should take into account who Bell has become in the years since those posts, and he also called for an end to the backlash against the reporters who uncovered them.
Meanwhile, Portland still needs to fill its broadcast booth. Jaynes' report provides some direction, though he did not indicate a favorite or a timeline for a decision. Either way, the Blazers would surely welcome a little less drama with their next announcement.
Key Analysis
The Blazers' search for a new play-by-play announcer comes amid controversy, as the team navigates the fallout from Bell's swift hiring and firing. With three experienced candidates in the mix, the organization aims to move forward and restore stability to its broadcasting team.
Originally reported by yardbarker.