Jim Paxson has been the target of some harsh criticism in his time running the Cavaliers.

But the team is mostly out of salary-cap jail, seems to have a corps of bright young prospects, and the hottest rookie in NBA history is about to suit up.

Owner Gordon Gund has saved tens of millions in fat contracts -- those of Shawn Kemp, Bobby Sura and Lamond Murray to name a few -- that were jettisoned by Paxson.

So even coming off two of the leanest years in franchise history, including a league-worst 17-65 record last season, Paxson was rewarded with a new contract and a promotion.

Paxson, who came to the organization in 1998 and became the general manager in '99, agreed to the new deal and signed it several weeks ago, but the announcement came Thursday.

It is believed he was about to begin the final year of his deal, and the Cavaliers had to decide on an option year by today.

Paxson's title was changed from senior vice president to president and general manager of basketball operations.