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Portland Trail Blazers: Three perfect power forward options in free agency

By Stevie Cozens

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 14: Danilo Gallinari #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots the ball during the first quarter against the LA Clippers at The Field House at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 14, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 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 License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 14: Danilo Gallinari #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder shoots the ball during the first quarter against the LA Clippers at The Field House at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 14, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. 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 License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /
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The Portland Trail Blazers need a starting power forward for the 2021 season. Which three options would fit this team perfectly?

The Portland Trail Blazers don’t currently have a fulltime power forward on their roster. Zach Collins was slated to play there last year, but injuries meant that this lasted just three games. Collins will be back for 2021, but it remains to be seen whether he is a power forward. His offensive game still hasn’t come along, and I’m still unsure if he can defend in space as a four.

Carmelo Anthony filled in respectfully while Collins was out, but his status is uncertain for next season. Melo has stated that he would like to stay here, but financial constraints may rule that out. Investing any more than the minimum on a soon to be 37-year-old Melo wouldn’t be smart salary cap management.

A power forward that could stretch the floor like Melo did would be a perfect fit next to Jusuf Nurkic though.

With only around $10 million to spend, this is a crucial decision for the 2021 season. Neil Olshey could choose to go offense only and go all-in on scoring. With Nurkic back and Trent at the three, that may be the best option. The forward market isn’t exactly stacked with two-way talent, so an offense only approach isn’t a bad option.