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How do Ariza, Gabriel and Swanigan fit on this Trail Blazers team?

By Stevie Cozens

SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 13: Trevor Ariza #0 of the Sacramento Kings looks on during the game against the Orlando Magic on January 13, 2020 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2020 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 13: Trevor Ariza #0 of the Sacramento Kings looks on during the game against the Orlando Magic on January 13, 2020 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2020 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Wenyen Gabriel

Wenyen Gabriel is a fascinating prospect for the Blazers. Gabriel, on a one-year deal that expires at the end of the season, is more of an athlete than Swanigan at six-foot-nine and only 220 pounds. He has spent a lot of time in the G-league, with just 11 games and 55 minutes played in the NBA so far.

He went undrafted in 2018 after two years at Kentucky where he was a stretch big for two seasons. He signed a two-way deal with the Kings last season and then was upgraded to a full deal this year.

The first thing that stands out when diving deep into Gabriel’s young basketball career is his year to year improvement. He improved his three-point volume and percentage from year one to year two at Kentucky. Then from Kentucky to the G-league he improved his free throw percentage, and the same with the three-point percentage from his first year in the G-league to his second.

He is an excellent offensive rebounder, and his shot blocking is starting to come on as well. He is raw in terms of excessive fouling, but let’s remember he hasn’t even played 100 games as a pro.

A 37-point effort this month against the Iowa Wolves was evidence as to why he was the number 14 ranked recruit in 2016. He shot threes, attacked off the dribble, and caught lobs for thunderous dunks.

When watching tape of him he may remind fans of a slimmer Pascal Siakam. His game isn’t as refined but his attacking off the dribble or in transition with big long strides is reminiscent of last years most improved player.

There’s a good chance that the Kings valued Gabriel, as one of the second round picks that were given up could have been compensation for him. He may only play sparingly this year, but he is an exciting prospect and can probably be brought be back next year at a relatively cheap cost.

This team needs some young prospects with size. Gabriel could just fit that bill.

Next. 2020 NBA Mock Draft: Trail Blazers, Wizards, Kings face franchise defining decisions. dark

From a talent standpoint the Blazers did well in this trade. Ariza still has a bit left in the tank, Swanigan may not be of use but if he has improved they can use him. While Gabriel could be an excellent pickup as a buy low development piece.

The cap mechanics of this deal need to be taken into consideration. While this deal needs to be looked at with other potential moves to decide the overall grade on this trade. It seems like the Blazers may not be done making moves. For the meantime we look forward to seeing the first appearances of the recent additions.