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3 best and worst moves by Blazers’ GM Joe Cronin so far

By Jacob Dazzeo

Feb 8, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Norman Powell (24) shoots against Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Green (8) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 8, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Norman Powell (24) shoots against Dallas Mavericks forward Josh Green (8) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Cam Reddish, Portland Trail Blazers, Photo by: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports
Cam Reddish, Portland Trail Blazers, Photo by: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports /

Cronin’s 2023 deadline deal is looking better every day

At the time, many fans were disappointed that the Blazers’ trade deadline splash this season was the acquisitions of Matisse Thybulle and Cam Reddish. With each game, though, this trade looks better and better for the Blazers as they retool (once again) with their eyes set on next season.

Cronin managed to turn Josh Hart’s expiring contract into Reddish, Thybulle, and a 2023 lottery-protected first-round pick via the New York Knicks.

In increased minutes, both Reddish and Thybulle have shown the potential to be solid contributors for the Blazers. Reddish has started at the three position in all but two of his games in Portland and is shooting well while providing the length that the Blazers needed.

In minutes where Lillard and Simons are off the court, he’s been able to step in as the primary ballhandler with some success. Thybulle has played his two-time Second-Team All-NBA level defense while shooting respectable clips from all over the court.

Next. Blazers draft: Portland doubles down to fix greatest weakness in recent mock. dark

The 2023 first-round pick looks like it will come to fruition as Hart has helped the Knicks rise in the standings. It’s looking more and more likely that the Blazers will end up with two first-round picks in the 2023 NBA Draft, giving them plenty of trade options when on the search for a superstar.