Ferry out as Cavs’ GM

By Brian Windhorst

The Cleveland Plain Dealer

CLEVELAND

Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert and his former top executive, Danny Ferry, are deeply rooted in their philosophical beliefs and also can be hardheaded negotiators.

It is why they got along well for the past five years and why the Cavs enjoyed success under their leadership. It is also why that marriage is over as Ferry and the Cavs have parted ways, a decision that was announced on Friday.

The move, which was unexpected even though Ferry’s contract as general manager is up at the end of the month, further pushes the team into uncertainty ahead of LeBron James’ free agency.

Unlike with the firing of coach Mike Brown last week, Gilbert had a clear succession plan in place and quickly named assistant general manager Chris Grant as Ferry’s replacement.

High-ranking sources said James played no role in what is being called a mutual decision for Ferry to move on. James was informed of the change but was not consulted on it.

What led Ferry and Gilbert to break their bond seemed to be based more in the future than the past. When Ferry took the job in 2005 he walked away from the table during contract talks at one point because he wanted full personnel control and the promise no executive would be hired above him.

However, he and Gilbert were on opposite sides when it came to firing Brown. Gilbert held firm that there needed to be a change and Ferry eventually came around to agree with the decision.

In talking about how major decisions in the future would be handled, it was clear that Ferry and Gilbert had a disconnect. That was the breakdown that is believed to have been the root of Ferry’s decision not to seek another contract.

Especially with major decisions at hand like the next coach and how the Cavs might look to trade into the upcoming NBA Draft.