PG: Damian Lillard/Tim Frazier
SG: C.J. McCollum/Allen Crabbe
SF: Nicolas Batum
PF: Meyers Leonard
C: Chris Kamen
2015 Free Agents
PG Joel Freeland (RFA)
SG Arron Afflalo (player option)
PG Steve Blake (player option)
PF LaMarcus Aldridge
SG Wesley Matthews
SG Alonzo Gee
C Robin Lopez
SF Dorell Wright
2015 Draft Picks
1-23
Team Needs
The future of Portland's franchise will very much depend on what LaMarcus Aldridge decides to do this summer. If he stays, they are a playoff team again, if he goes they are in rebuilding more. If the latter comes to pass, this pick should be spent on a higher upside, riskier prospect that might fall to them. If the former, then Portland needs to upgrade their bench, long the Achilles heel of this team despite the resources poured into improving the quality of their depth, nothing has really worked for the Blazers. If Aldridge goes or stays, Portland might look to trade Nicolas Batum on draft night to either jumpstart their rebuild or rework their rotation in order to fix the depth issues. A team like Utah or Oklahoma City could offer a lottery pick and young player for Batum.
Potential Fits
The only position Portland probably wouldn't look at is point guard, but even their the depth is suspect behind Damien Lillard. Basically, the Blazers should take the best player on their board to (hopefully) slot into the bench rotation, with an emphasis on shooting and playing defense. Virginia's Justin Anderson is an excellent, versatile defender who shot well last season, but is suspect in that area. Anthony Brown of Stanford lacks Anderson's defensive upside, but he is very solid and a much better shooter. Utah's Delon Wright has the size and defensive ability to play alongside Lillard, but can function as a primary creator off the bench. R.J. Hunter of Georgia State would give Portland a knockdown shooter if Wesley Matthews leaves in free agency. Though he may be drafted very high, there is a chance Kentucky's Trey Lyles is available for Portland, where I think he would be the best of both world's for Portland. Able to contribute as a body off the bench, but with some upside if his shooting improves.
Mock Draft
23. Trey Lyles, F/C, Kentucky
No comments:
Post a Comment