The Portland Trail Blazers are at a pivotal turning point in their franchise’s history. With the potential departure of Damian Lillard looming, the team’s focus shifts to rebuilding and retooling while trying to remain competitive.
One of the primary areas of concern is the center position.
Jusuf Nurkic has been a mainstay for the Blazers, but if he’s included in a trade package for Lillard, Portland will need a suitable replacement. The following are three free agent centers the Blazers should consider.
Blazers’ free agent center option No. 1: Christian Wood – the starter solution
At just 27 years old, Christian Wood has already showcased his immense talent in the NBA. Standing at 6-foot-10, Wood possesses a unique combination of size, agility and skill, making him a matchup nightmare for opposing teams.
His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and prowess in the paint makes him a dual threat on the offensive end.
Replacing Nurkic with Wood would maintain and elevate the Blazers’ offensive potency. Wood’s age also aligns perfectly with Portland’s timeline, especially if it wants to build around a younger core post-Lillard.
While the rest of the roster skews younger, Wood and Jerami Grant are about the same age, which would give Rip City a bit of win-now talent mixed in with future superstars.
Defensively, Wood has shown flashes of brilliance, especially as a shot-blocker. His length and timing allow him to alter shots in the paint, which would provide the Blazers with a much-needed rim protector.
In terms of contract demands, Wood might command a hefty price tag. However, considering his age and upside, he would be a worthy investment for Portland’s future.
Blazers free agent center option No. 2: Blake Griffin – the proven veteran mentor
Blake Griffin’s journey in the NBA has been nothing short of remarkable. From a high-flying dunker to a seasoned veteran with a refined skill set, Griffin has adapted and evolved his game to remain relevant in the league.
Griffin would offer a wealth of experience and mentorship to the Blazers. His basketball IQ and understanding of the game would be invaluable to the younger players on the roster. His leadership qualities, both on and off the court, would provide stability during this transitional phase for PDX.
Financially, Griffin’s price tag will likely be more affordable than it was in his prime years. Plus, from a business perspective, having a potential Hall of Famer on the team will help fill the Moda Center, and Griffin jerseys are sure to sell.
This makes him an attractive option for the Blazers, who could benefit from his experience without breaking the bank.
Blazers free agent center option No: 3: Bismack Biyombo – the rebounder/defender
Bismack Biyombo has carved a niche for himself in the NBA as a tenacious rebounder and shot-blocker. His physicality and hustle are precisely what the Blazers need to bolster their frontcourt defense.
While Biyombo might offer little offensive production, his value lies in doing the dirty work. Collecting rebounds, setting hard screens and protecting the rim are all tasks Biyombo excels at. For a Portland team that boasts young shooters, having someone like Biyombo to secure second-chance opportunities could be crucial.
Given Biyombo’s specific skill set, the Blazers could secure his services at a reasonable price, which would him an excellent value addition to the roster. Biyombo is also a 12-year veteran who would add much-needed experience to a very young roster if Lillard and Nurkic leave.
The Blazers have a range of options to consider as they look to solidify their center position. Whether they opt for youth and potential with Wood; experience and mentorship with Griffin; or defense and hustle with Biyombo, the future looks promising for Rip City.