The next coach of the Blazers could be Clyde Drexler. According to people close to the team, the players don't want another regurgitated coach whose time has come and gone. They want someone who will command respect because of his accomplishments in the league, someone with the ability to communicate and understand the psychological makeup -- if that's truly possible -- of today's players. Dunleavy has lost the respect of the players and the ability to connect with them. Drexler, 38, would command the respect of the players. Even though he retired after the 1998 season, most players are well aware of Drexler's accomplishments. Drexler has said he would like to return to Portland. He maintains a home in Portland and returns to the city every summer. Allen has said he would like to see Drexler return to the organization, and Drexler has said he wants to come back and work for the Blazers.