Make it into the rotation
Swanigan should get a chance to join Collins in the reserve frontcourt before Leonard does. If the current iteration of the Blazers roster doesn’t work out, management needs to prepare for the rebuild by developing its young players. Additionally, Leonard has had his chances to convince Stotts that he’s worthy of consistent minutes and hasn’t capitalized.
But if the seventh year forward gets time, applying the four goals prior to this one will secure him a spot in the rotation. The line is thin for him, though – he’s already had an offseason to work with Drew Hanlen and there were no noticeable changes in his mentality or skill level. Another summer of work with Hanlen that doesn’t result in apparent improvement will likely end Leonard’s chance to play consistent minutes in Portland.
To optimize the remaining $20 million of his contract, he must take advantage of possibly the last opportunity Stotts offers. Many Blazers fans have maintained hope in the center for six underwhelming years, but patience is dwindling.