The Portland Trail Blazers signed center Enes Kanter earlier today. So, what does he bring to the team?
On Wednesday, the Portland Trail Blazers filled their final roster spot by signing center Enes Kanter.
Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN broke the news via Twitter:
Enes Kanter has agreed to a deal with Portland, league sources tell ESPN
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 13, 2019
Wojnarowski also reported that Kanter chose the Blazers over several other teams including the Los Angeles Lakers:
Blazers beat a crowded field for Kanter, including the Lakers, per sources. Kanter is an important addition for Blazers, where he'll play a good share of minutes. Portland signed Kanter to a $70M offer sheet in 2015, which OKC matched. https://t.co/1Qdd1Ff43G
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 13, 2019
Kanter was having a solid season for the tanking New York Knicks before he was bought out. He recorded averages of 14 points and 10.5 rebounds this season.
However, a buyout was the best decision for both parties. The Knicks never needed Kanter’s production since they are in the midst of a full rebuild. After acquiring another veteran center in DeAndre Jordan as part of the blockbuster trade with Dallas, it was evident that there was no more room for Kanter in New York. The Knicks were intent on keeping Jordan for the rest of the season and rookie Mitchell Robinson still required minutes.
On the flip side, Kanter now moves on from a struggling team to an expected playoff team in the Blazers as Portland currently sits at fourth place in the Western Conference. His production can actually help a team win basketball games and he has a defined role.
Kanter is a polarizing player across the league. His defensive struggles have been well covered, but he is very good at certain aspects of the game. Let’s break down his strengths and how they will impact the Blazers moving forward.