The Portland Trail Blazers have many needs this offseason, but addressing the center position is likely at the top of their to-do list.
Their lack of depth and defensive presence there is a noticeable gap in the roster. Jusuf Nurkic, the only true center under contract next season, would greatly benefit from having another quality rotational center or two to share the load.
Despite limited cap space, the Blazers can utilize their other available resources, such as the full mid-level exception (MLE) ($12.2 million), minimum contracts, or the bi-annual exception ($4.5 million), to address this need.
Let’s explore four potential free agent fits and their projected impacts.
Christian Wood
Christian Wood is a highly coveted free agent who could provide immediate impact as a rotation big for the Blazers.
Wood could start and have an impact offensively after averaging 16.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game for the Dallas Mavericks last season. His shooting prowess – he shot 51.5 percent from the floor and 37.6 percent from three in 2022-23 – would add a new dimension to the Blazers’ offense.
Wood’s potential as a scoring option would complement the shooting prowess of Damian Lillard and Anfernee Simons. While securing Wood might require utilizing the full MLE, his skill set and versatility would make him a worthwhile investment for Portland.
Dwight Powell
Dwight Powell presents another viable option for the Trail Blazers, bringing his skills as a rotation big with the potential to start. Known for his ability to create offense through pick-and-rolls at the top of the key, Powell would add a dynamic element to the Blazers’ offensive schemes.
His proficiency in setting screens and rolling to the basket would provide Lillard, Simons, and Shaedon Sharpe with additional scoring opportunities. Moreover, Powell’s excellent low-post defense would bolster the team’s defensive capabilities.
Powell’s experience in the NBA would bring a valuable level of knowledge and understanding to the Blazers’ frontcourt. Having played in meaningful games and crucial moments throughout his nine-year career, he possesses the composure and poise necessary to contribute in high-pressure situations.
His seasoned presence would greatly benefit the team’s overall performance and playoff aspirations.
Powell’s versatility as a big man would allow the Blazers to experiment with different lineup combinations. With his ability to stretch the floor and finish at the rim, Powell would offer an additional scoring threat.
While his projected contract may fall within the range of the bi-annual exception or the full MLE, Powell’s contributions on both ends of the court make him an attractive option for the Blazers.
Drew Eubanks
Drew Eubanks, having already spent a year-and-a-half with the Blazers, is familiar with the system and can seamlessly fit into the rotation. As a shot-blocking specialist, Eubanks brings energy and defensive intensity off the bench. The Troutdale Shaq was a bright spot in some hard-to-watch games last season.
During the team’s struggles, Eubanks showcased his potential and provided much-needed energy off the bench. His shot-blocking ability and relentless hustle on both ends of the court injected a spark into the Blazers’ lineup.
Eubanks’ contributions were a source of optimism during a challenging season, making him an intriguing option to continue developing within the Blazers’ system.
In 78 games last season, he averaged 1.3 blocks, showcasing his ability to protect the rim. While not a flashy signing, Eubanks would provide stability as a small rotation center and offer reliable contributions on the defensive end.
His shot-blocking prowess provides an additional layer of support to the Blazers’ defensive schemes. Eubanks may be an ideal choice as a third center on the Blazers’ roster.
Naz Reid
Naz Reid presents an interesting option for the Blazers, with his ability to stretch the floor as a big man. Averaging 11.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game last season, Reid showcased his scoring potential in limited minutes.
As a stretch big, he would provide valuable spacing, opening up driving lanes for Lillard.
Reid’s versatility and scoring prowess make him a valuable bench option, capable of providing an offensive spark when needed. While securing Reid might require utilizing the full MLE, his potential as a scoring threat off the bench makes him an enticing option for the Blazers.
Portland recognizes the need for reinforcement at the center position to complement Nurkic and improve the team’s overall depth. Wood offers scoring and versatility, Powell offers a strong pick-and-roll setup and low post defense, Eubanks provides shot-blocking and familiarity with the system, and Reid brings a stretch-big element to the team.
Each player presents unique attributes that could greatly benefit the Blazers. While financial constraints limit the team’s ability to sign star players, the available resources, such as the full MLE, minimum contracts, or the bi-annual exception, provide avenues to address the center position and strengthen the team’s chances of contending in the competitive NBA landscape.