Portland Trail Blazers: 1 Fork in the Road 2 Directions
Portland’s primary concern has to be with Lillard and Simons getting the bulk of the backcourt minutes. After all, they are the scorers. But where will they find enough playing time for Hart, Little, and the newly signed Payton?
None of them can play the 4-spot, and there are not enough backcourt minutes left to be had. If Sharpe develops, it gets even more congested on the wings.
They have another issue with Nurkic. The center hasn’t played a full season in three years and has only managed to twice in his eight-season career. To say the least, Nurk can’t be counted on to stay healthy.
The Portland Trail Blazers’ frontcourt is frighteningly thin behind him and Grant.
One injury to either, and the Portland Trail Blazers will be checking on Zach Randolph‘s availability. This doesn’t sound like the roster construction of a winner or even a competitive team.
I’m aware positionless basketball is where the NBA is heading. But everyone playing the same position seems like overkill. So what should Portland do?
The simplest thing might be for Cronin to check in on Jae Crowder in Phoenix. It’s not exactly a secret he wants out, and his frontcourt versatility, defensive ability, and attitude would all be welcome in Portland.
He’s a little older than most of the current roster but is right on Lillard’s timeline. It’s not a perfect fit, but adding Crowder would be a step in the right direction.