Rookie projections for the forward
The Blazers have one of the best developmental staffs in the NBA, and Swanigan has a chance to become the next Allen Crabbe or even McCollum. Portland has turned modest bench pieces into some of the highest-paid players in the league.
In about five years, don’t be surprised if he is the biggest steal of the entire draft.
Playing about 10-20 minutes a game, Caleb can come in and impact the game in short stints. He just needs to hit open shots, rebound and make smart plays. The Blazers need a big man to provide energy on the bench, and Swanigan fits that mold.
I would not be surprised if Swanigan plays more than the No. 10 pick, Zach Collins this season.
Collins is going to be a very good player, but at 19 years old he is still very raw. He only played one year in college and didn’t even start.
Swanigan is physically ready for the NBA and played two full seasons in the Big Ten, a premier conference.
I think Swanigan will average about 12 minutes a game, along with 6 points, 4 rebounds and 1 assists per game. If he can shoot 50 FG% and 34 3pt%, he’ll start his career right.
It really depends how many big men the Blazers bring into next season; but until then, he will work his butt off to improve and will be ready to perform when the time comes.