GM David Griffin Not Returning To Cleveland Cavaliers

CLEVELAND, OH — The Cleveland Cavaliers and general manager David Griffin are parting ways, the team announced on Monday. Griffin was the team's general manager for three seasons, including 2016 when the team won the city's first professional sports championship since 1964.

Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert said in a statement the decision to not renew Griffin's contract, which expires June 30, 2017, was mutual. Gilbert added the team does not currently have an announcement on leadership changes.

"On behalf of the entire organization, I would like to thank Griff for his leadership and many contributions during his time here, including most recently, his role in the franchise’s first NBA Championship," Gilbert said in the statement.

Rumors about Griffin's status with the team have been swirling since before the 2017 NBA Finals, which saw the Cavs lose to the Warriors in five games. Notably, the Orlando Magic have been linked to Griffin.

Gilbert finished his statement by saying, "...we are confident our current front office will continue to aggressively explore and pursue opportunities to improve our team in the weeks ahead."

Yahoo's Adrian Wojnarowski reports the Cavs are in discussions with former Detroit Pistons point guard Chauncey Billups to become the franchise's top basketball executive. Billups reportedly has a long relationship with both Gilbert and Cleveland head coach Tyronn Lue.

The Cavaliers are in the middle of a potentially franchise-defining week. Rumors have linked the team to possible deals for Indiana Pacers star Paul George and Chicago Bulls guard/forward Jimmy Butler. Both deals would likely require an overhaul of the existing roster, including potentially dealing forward Kevin Love.

Photo from Rick Uldricks, Patch