21. Portland Trail Blazers (via Golden State Warriors) select Terrance Arceneaux
Portland gets a second crack in the first round with this top-four protected pick from the Warriors. Golden State is all-in on winning another championship, so the Blazers will likely select in the 20s along with their choice near the top.
Arceneaux struggled to get minutes in his first year at Houston. The 6’5 wing displayed an intriguing skill set but averaged just 3.7 points and 2.5 rebounds in 13.9 minutes per game. He needs to secure a larger role and prove he can be impactful on both ends. This class is light on wings and this selection is a bet on the teenager’s potential.
Terrance Arceneaux competes hard on the defensive end and can guard multiple positions. If he can consistently knock down jumpers, there should be plenty of minutes available. The 19-year-old needs to prove it on the floor, but finding a quality 3-and-D wing who could be an NBA starter is a win at this stage in the draft.
The Portland Trail Blazers are facing a total reset. They already have some pieces, but teams can never have enough shooting or defense. Arceneaux should offer both with upside to improve his ball-handling and playmaking as he reaches his peak.