4. Re-sign Jerami Grant
Grant is an unrestricted free agent that is coming off arguably the best season of his career. The 6’8 forward averaged 20.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.8 blocks in 35.7 minutes per game on 47.5 percent shooting from the field and 40.1 percent on his threes. Grant has been a strong scorer for three straight years, but his efficiency took a massive leap playing in Portland next to Damian Lillard.
The Blazers need to bring Grant back if they want to keep Damian Lillard, but it will not come cheap. The 6’8 forward is reportedly seeking $30 million per season in his new contract. Will Portland have to offer a five-year deal worth $150 million? It is the easiest way for them to win a bidding war. Grant is 29 years old and underrated. The best could still be yet to come.
If he leaves in free agency, Portland would have some cap space, but they would not be able to add someone of Grant’s caliber. Adding a couple of pieces and using the full mid-level exception could give the Trail Blazers depth, but they need more than that.
Their path to contention is keeping Jerami Grant and finding a way to trade for role players around Dame, Scoot, and the 6’8 forward.