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Trail Blazers Free Agency: 25 and Under Targets

By Perry Waggoner

Mar 31, 2016; Portland, OR, USA; Boston Celtics center Jared Sullinger (7) reacts to a call during the third quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center at the Rose Quarter. The Trail Blazers won 116-109. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 31, 2016; Portland, OR, USA; Boston Celtics center Jared Sullinger (7) reacts to a call during the third quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center at the Rose Quarter. The Trail Blazers won 116-109. Mandatory Credit: Steve Dykes-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 7, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Boston Celtics center Jared Sullinger (7) Trail Blazers Free Agency: Under 25 Targets. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 7, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Boston Celtics center Jared Sullinger (7) Trail Blazers Free Agency: Under 25 Targets. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

Jared Sullinger, 24 years old (RFA)

2015-16 Stats: 10.3 PPG / 8.3 RPG / 2.3 APG

The Case for Sullinger: Coming out of Ohio State, Sullinger was known for his bullish style of play and his ability to score in a variety of ways. Since stepping into a bigger role with Boston in 2013, he’s shown off the skills that made him one of college’s premier talents in the 2012 draft. While he barely scored north of 10 points this season, Sullinger’s nose for rebounds was never better, leading the Celtics with 8.3 RPG. Considering his small stature of 6’9”, that’s a notable feat. It’s well documented that Portland lacked a consistent scoring presence in the post last season and there might not be a better option to provide that than Sullinger.

The Case Against Sullinger: As stated earlier, Sullinger isn’t the tallest tree in the forest. He’s one of the NBA’s smallest centers and would be a rather short power forward if he were to change positions. Portland has a small lineup already with Aminu or Harkless at the four, so adding Sullinger doesn’t make much sense in that regard. Another concern is his plethora of of injuries sustained throughout his career. Granted, Sullinger did play 81 games this past season, but history tells us to be wary of his durability. From back issues that led to a drop in the draft, to his numerous season ending surgeries (lumbar disk in 2013, metatarsal stress fracture in 2014), the Trail Blazers might not be too keen on bringing in someone with his track record. Contract wise, Sullinger is a restricted free agent, so Boston can match any offer another team signs him to.

Cost of signing Sullinger: While not a max player, he could demand any from $14 million to $17 million per year.

Next: Bismack Biyombo, 23 years old