The Cavaliers have officially hired a General Manager, promoting Koby Altman to the position. This comes nearly a month after the firing of David Griffin.
Finally, the Cleveland Cavaliers have employed a General Manager. Right before the NBA Draft, the Cavs decided to part ways with David Griffin, leaving a void within the position during the most important time in the offseason. The second-in-command, Trent Redden, also stepped down, leaving the reins to Koby Altman.
Without much salary cap space or draft capital, Altman maneuvered to re-sign Kyle Korver, add Jeff Green and Jose Calderon and bring their draft-and-stash prospect Cedi Osman to Cleveland. While many speculated that Chauncey Billups would take the job, he eventually turned it down.
Gilbert was left at the altar by Billups, without a Plan B. While he didn’t immediately announce it, many assumed Altman would end up taking the duties full time. The Cavaliers finally announced the hiring of their new General Manager on Monday afternoon.
The 34-year-old is stepping into an extremely difficult role, dealing with championship expectations, while also battling with Kyrie Irving trade demands. Let’s see what he does in the next month, as it’s likely going to be the most important stretch for the future of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
In their press release, Dan Gilbert had this to say about his new GM:
Over the past month, Koby Altman has led our front office group through this transition period, impressing many inside the franchise and outside the organization, as well. We are very excited that he will now be officially leading the basketball side of our franchise. Koby has the credentials, knowledge, experience and instincts to be an outstanding General Manager. In addition to these positive attributes and outstanding relationships around the league, Koby will inspire and impact the best possible culture throughout the organization. We are going to see a capable and passionate leader who will also cultivate new ideas and innovation. The speed of the game is ever faster on the court and in the front offices around our league. I am confident that Koby is equipped and prepared to lead and succeed in this dynamic environment.
Altman will be officially introduced to the media on Wednesday, July 26 at the Cleveland Clinic.
I’m sure most of the questions will directly relate to the future of Kyrie Irving, LeBron James and also the oh-so-close trade for Paul George. Let’s see how Altman handles his first interaction with the media.