SG: Shaedon Sharpe
The Blazers believe Sharpe has All-Star potential, and he showcased it over the final ten games last season. Portland had zero interest in winning and secured just two victories, but the teenager averaged 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 0.9 steals in 35.9 minutes per game. He shot 46.0 percent from the field and 37.8 percent from 3-point range over the small sample.
Portland does not need Sharpe to make that leap right now. They hope the 6’6 wing can improve his game on both ends of the floor and operate like Devin Booker in his prime next to Scoot Henderson in the backcourt.
If both become All-Stars, Portland will be in the hunt. Sharpe is just nine months older than Henderson and both are five-plus years away from their peaks. They have time to grow and get accustomed to putting each other in positions to succeed.
The Portland Trail Blazers make Anfernee Simons their sixth man in this scenario as Sharpe offers more size and versatility. Simons is a straight bucket off the bench in Rip City, but the Blazes are far from done there.
Trading Damian Lillard and taking a step back leads to Portland adding another marquee talent in the draft next summer. In their dream scenario, the Blazers win the lottery and get another game-changer at the top of the draft.