4 Prospects Blazers should already be scouting for 2024 NBA Draft

Blazers 2024 NBA Draft prospect No. 2: Aaron Bradshaw, center, Kentucky

Kentucky commit Aaron Bradshaw is a top-ranked high school recruit who unfortunately suffered a foot injury, leaving a murky start date for his collegiate career. At 7-feet with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, Bradshaw presents an intriguing combination of physical attributes and skills that make him a likely lottery pick in 2024.

One of Bradshaw’s standout attributes is his athleticism. Offensively, he should immediately contribute to the NBA as a dynamic rim-runner. His frame, speed and agility present mismatch nightmares that should lead to high-percentage scoring opportunities.

What is most intriguing for Bradshaw as an NBA prospect is his defensive potential due to his mentioned length and athleticism. He’s drawn comparisons to Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton, a strong contender for an All-NBA Defensive team selection last season.

This likeness suggests that Bradshaw’s playing style aligns well with the modern demands of the game, where centers are expected to contribute not only in traditional post play but also as agile defenders.

Bradshaw’s potential fit with the Blazers

Bradshaw’s skill set would address a significant void in Portland’s current roster composition..

His exceptional length, athleticism and versatility would be a much-needed change as the Blazers look to rebuild around their youth and the modern style of the NBA. Whether they ultimately keep Nurkic or not, Bradshaw would be an excellent addition. He could start his career as a change of pace behind Nurkic to give Portland another look defensively, hoping to progress into the starting role as a Claxton type of player.

While he’s likely not going to be a go-to scorer, the Blazers already have enough scoring potential from their guards. Bradshaw could be an excellent complementary piece as a modern-day center and a key figure in the Blazers’ pursuit of a more versatile roster configuration.