Trail Blazers free agency: Players to target at each position
By Reese Kunz
Athleticism and activity at the four
The following power forwards are dynamic because they aren’t prototypical back-to-the-basket bigs. Instead, they’re athletic players that can play either the small forward or power forward position.
On offense, they’re capable slashers and offensive rebounders. In addition, they’re also floor spacers that can stretch out beyond the arc.
Defensively, they are more versatile than traditional bigs due to their athleticism and ability to guard multiple positions.
Rui Hachimura
In the Los Angeles Lakers’ first playoff game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Hachimura scored 29 points and was a huge reason they won. He’s a good scorer and rebounder with an athletic 6-8, 230-pound frame.
Rui’s versatility and energy would be great as a spark plug off the bench if Grant comes back as the starter.
Torrey Craig
Craig has a big 6-7, 221-pound frame. He’s a good rebounder, averaging 5.4 rebounds this season in 24.7 minutes. Craig also has shot 39.5 percent from three this season.
With star guards Lillard and Simons, shooting is the Blazers’ team strength and identity. If Craig can continue to hover around 40 percent from downtown, he would be an excellent addition to that identity while adding much-needed size.
Craig is a good candidate to target in free agency as someone who can fill minutes off the bench with his size, energy, and ability to stretch the floor.