The Portland Trail Blazers freed up a roster spot in the recent Rodney Hood trade. With the trade deadline approaching, the Blazers should have opportunities to sign players in the buyout market.
The Portland Trail Blazers acquired Rodney Hood in a trade with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday. As part of the deal, they shipped out Nik Stauskas and Wade Baldwin IV. All of a sudden, the Blazers have an open roster spot available.
The Blazers are having a fantastic regular season, but many fans and analysts are skeptical of their chances in the playoffs. The front office could take advantage of the newly open roster spot to really elevate this roster. Boris Diaw was bought out by Charlotte in 2012 and became a key piece during the NBA Finals for San Antonio.
The front office could certainly take a look at Carmelo Anthony or another veteran currently on the free agent market like Trevor Booker or Ron Baker. However, the buyout market should include many talented players who could help the Blazers compete in the playoffs. Players who were released or bought out last February include Derrick Rose, Marco Belinelli, and Greg Monroe.
This year’s buyout market is projected to be even better with several solid veterans having the potential to hit the market.
I am going to take a look at five buyout candidates. I will then analyze their potential fit with the Blazers, their chances of actually being bought out, and their current situation. I am focusing on players who are either rumored to be a potential buyout candidate or players who have overpriced contracts on tanking teams. Let’s get started.