1 Question for each player on the Trail Blazers training camp roster

14. Kris Murray, F

Can Murray prove he belongs in the NBA?

The Blazers don't have to answer this question immediately since they have Murray under contract through 2026-27 should they decide to pick up his team options. But Portland has a deep team, and it's only going to get harder for him to stay on the roster as they continue adding top draft prospects in the coming years.

He needs to play with a sense of urgency in 2024-25. After a disappointing rookie season and inconsistent Summer League play this offseason, Murray has a long way to go before being considered a long-term roster lock.

Even if his three balls aren't consistently falling, he must show his long-term value by impacting the defensive end. Having a two-way wing is one of the most sought-after player archetypes. If Murray finds that niche, he might have a long NBA career.

13. Rayan Rupert, G/F

Will the Blazers find a way to incorporate Rupert?

Chauncey Billups needs to get creative with how to optimize Rupert's unique point-forward skill set. He's arguably the most under-the-radar player on Portland's entire roster and has a significant upside if he can figure out how exactly his strengths translate best to the NBA.

Rupert is 6-foot-6 with a 7-foot-3 wingspan and can be a tremendous two-way piece coming off the bench to give the Blazers' lineup more versatility. Many of Portland's players are one-dimensional, offensive-minded players with overlapping strengths. So they must develop unique players like Rupert.

Much of his success in the NBA will depend on how teams decide to use him. If you treat Rupert like a traditional guard or wing, you will be underwhelmed by his lack of shooting. But the key to unlocking his untapped potential will be taking advantage of his mismatches. Rupert has too much length and size for a guard to defend him and is too skilled of a ballhandler and playmaker for many wings.