Trail Blazers: Pre Trade Deadline Needs
Mozgov has fallen out of favor in Cleveland this year and he loses more playing time to Tristian Thompson each game. With only one year left on his contract and the Cav’s well over the cap, it is likely that the 7’1″ center will be on the move before the deadline. The Trail Blazers have already brokered a deal with Cleveland this year, so it isn’t crazy to think they will be able to pull off another.
As mentioned above, Mozgov is losing playing time to Thompson. This has resulted in his averages dipping across the board, he is now only averaging 6.3 PPG and 4.3 RPG. Despite these drops, he is still sporting a 3.6 BLK%. His size and instincts around the rim would be upgrade for the Trail Blazers.
Perhaps all the Russian needs is a change of scenery. He is still on the right side of 30 (29 years old), so he would fit the future plans of Neil Olshey. If it doesn’t work out the consequences aren’t drastic, as Mozgov is in the last year of his contract.
Hibbert is stuck in NBA purgatory. Being placed on a tanking Lakers squad in the midst of a contract year is no place for a veteran. The 7’2″ center has been on a steep decline from his once all-star stature, but that doesn’t mean he is with out value. Hibbert is still posting a solid 5.1 BLK%, which nearly doubles Mason Plumlee’s numbers.
It will likely take very little to pry Hibbert from the Lakers. The Trail Blazers are one of few teams that can simply absorb all of his 15 million dollar contract. In a refined role it is plausible for Hibbert to find success in Portland. Like Mozgov, Hibbert is on the last year of his contract.
Things have not gone according to plan for New Orleans this season and it could result in them liquidating assets before the deadline. Asik has shown signs of being a dominant presence in the paint when healthy, but repeat injuries have kept him from consistent playing time. This didn’t keep the Pelicans from signing him to a large extension though. New Orleans will likely be looking to add long term cap flexibility, so it is likely other assets will come with Asik.
This could be an opportunity for Neil Olshey to pick up a potential rim protector and future draft picks. Portland would likely seek at least one future first round pick in order for them to eat Asik’s contract. Paul Allen is also not shy about spending money, so if Asik doesn’t work out they could still use the stretch provision to soften the blow to the cap.
Next: Reserve Point Guard Options