Portland Trail Blazers: Ranking the Top 5 Blazers under 25
3. Nassir Little – 22 years old
The 6’5” small forward started to have his breakout right around the same time as Anfernee Simons. But a late January left labrum tear put an end to his season. At the time, Nassir Little was just starting to show what he was capable of doing.
He ended the season averaging 9.8 points and 5.6 rebounds in 25.9 minutes per game. In the last month before his injury, Littles numbers jumped up to 13.1 and 5.7, respectively.
Most importantly, Little started looking like the team’s best perimeter defender. In recent seasons, perimeter defense is one area where the Blazers needed help.
Right now, the starting small forward position looks like Nassir’s to lose. Despite the injury (and May’s core muscle surgery), there is good reason to believe Little will continue where he left off.
BIG block from Nassir Little 🚫 pic.twitter.com/1vTWpZqEXm
— ESPN (@espn) December 9, 2021
2. Shaedon Sharpe – 19 years old
Once thought to be the best player in the 2022 Draft Class, Shaedon Sharpe might have the highest potential of anyone on this list. He dropped to the Portland Trail Blazers with the #7 pick in the NBA draft after deciding not to play any college ball.
Other than simply getting on the floor and gaining experience, Sharpe doesn’t seem to have any obvious weaknesses in his game. A natural scorer, his abilities seem to go from highlight dunks to a strong mid-range game and range out to beyond the 3-point line.
Even if he just scratches the surface of his abilities, it could put Portland coach Chauncey Billups in a position where he can’t afford to keep Sharpe off the floor.
As with all lofty risk-taking, he also might not pan out and end up being a bust. His growth this season should dictate what Portland decides to do moving forward with its wing position players.
Next: Page 4 – Future All-Star