Rip City Project
Fansided

Portland Trail Blazers: Grading every move of the 2021 off season

By Stevie Cozens

ORLANDO, FL - APRIL 26: Ben McLemore #7 of the Los Angeles Lakers releases the ball against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center on April 26, 2021 in Orlando, 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 Alex Menendez/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL - APRIL 26: Ben McLemore #7 of the Los Angeles Lakers releases the ball against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center on April 26, 2021 in Orlando, 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 Alex Menendez/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 6
Next
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
(Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

Move #2 – Sign undrafted Trendon Watford to a two-way deal

If the Blazers are hell-bent on signing young guys, then the better route is to not use any of their cap space, or assets, and utilize their two-way spots instead.

Each NBA team has two two-way roster spots they can use each season, that can go to players who have a certain amount of NBA experience. This money doesn’t count against the cap, but the player can still play for the NBA team and also on G-League rosters.

By signing Trendon Watford, out of LSU, the Blazers got another six-foot-nine forward with an intriguing skill set. Watford may not be as athletic as Brown, but he is a good passer, a developing shooter, and can rebound on both ends. Two-way deals don’t always lead to full NBA contracts, but rather than use their cap space and second-round picks on young guys, using one of their two-way spots instead was a better idea.

Watford is a strong value pickup with no downside for the overall move.

Grade – B+