Three scenarios for the Trail Blazers at the trade deadline
Trade both Whiteside and Bazemore for long-term options
The first and most obvious move is to trade for players who have at least one more year on their contracts and who can help this team immediately. Players who fit well in the system and want to come in and make a difference instantly are probably the best and least riskiest option. A couple of players make sense for this team and could be brought in at the deadline.
Finishing at the rim, rebounding and efficient shooting are the biggest needs for this team. To sum up, size is the most important thing when thinking about trades for Bazemore and Whiteside.
Trevor Ariza may not be the youngest or most athletic wing but he has size. He can guard the bigger wings in the league, is on a team friendly deal and he has championship pedigree. He is a league average three-point shooter who this year is shooting 40 percent on above the break triples, along with 64 percent at the rim. He would be an upgrade from Kent Bazemore, and he is under contract for next year. It is a non-guaranteed deal but the Blazers could guarantee it and bring him back.
Dewayne Dedmon would be a perfect addition to the Blazers front-court. His ability to stretch the floor in combination with his toughness and rim protection makes him a great Whiteside replacement. He was known as a great teammate on the Atlanta Hawks, and he has already stated he wants out of Sacramento. Dedmon shot 38 percent from three when playing for the Hawks last season, one of the best marks for a seven-footer.
Dedmon has one more year next year then a non-guarantee the following. This deal would also let the Blazers trade down in salary which would save on luxury tax payments.